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+27 10 494 3524 CGE's assessment of the government's implementation of the NSP on GBVF between 2020 and 2022 2023 MISSING PIECES OF THE PUZZLE CGE’S ASSESSMENT OF THE GOVERNMENT’S IMPLEMENTATION OF THE NSP ON GBVF BETWEEN 2020 AND 2022 2023 i CGE’s assessment of the government’s implementation of the NSP on GBVF between 2020 and 2022 2023 Copyright: © 2023 Commission for Gender Equality.

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: 978-0-621-51099-7 ii Commission for Gender Equality TABLE OF CONTENTS Table of Contents ......................................................................................................................................................... 1 Foreword and acknowledgements ............................................................................................................................ 2 Acronyms and abbreviations ..................................................................................................................................... 4 1.
Introduction ......................................................................................................................................................... 6 2.

Background on the NSP on GBVF..................................................................................................................... 7 3.

Purpose of the review ........................................................................................................................................ 8 4.
Research methodology ..................................................................................................................................... 8 5.

Limitations of the study ...................................................................................................................................... 9 6.
Findings of the review ...................................................................................................................................... 10 6.1 Pillar 1: Accountability, Coordination, and Leadership ...................................................................... 10 6.2 Pillar 2: Prevention and Rebuilding Social Cohesion .......................................................................... 20 6.3 Pillar 3: Protection, Safety and Justice .................................................................................................. 36 6.4 Pillar 4: Response, Care Support and Healing ..................................................................................... 47 6.5 Pillar 5: Economic Power ........................................................................................................................ 54 6.6 Pillar 6: Research and Information Systems ......................................................................................... 63 7.
Overview, discussion and analysis of key issues ......................................................................................... 69 7.1 Pillar 1: Accountability, Coordination and Leadership ....................................................................... 69 7.2 Pillar 2: Prevention and Rebuilding Social Cohesion .......................................................................... 70 7.3 Pillar 3: Protection, Safety and Justice .................................................................................................. 71 7.4 Pillar 4: Response, Care Support and Healing ..................................................................................... 71 7.5 Pillar 5: Economic Power ........................................................................................................................ 72 7.6 Pillar 6: Research and Information Systems ......................................................................................... 72 8.
Conclusions and recommendations .............................................................................................................. 74 8.1 Conclusions ............................................................................................................................................. 74 8.2 Recommendations .................................................................................................................................. 74 Annexure 1: Indicator performance per pillar ........................................................................................................ 76 1 CGE’s assessment of the government’s implementation of the NSP on GBVF between 2020 and 2022 2023 FOREWORD AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS A key outcome of the 2018 Presidential Summit on Gender-based Violence and Femicide (GBVF) was the summit declaration that called for the development of the National Strategic Plan on Gender-based Violence and Femicide (NSP on GBVF).
The NSP on GBVF is one of the government’s strategies to tackle the scourge of GBVF in South Africa.

The strategy has a ten-year life cycle (2020 to 2030) and was developed in 2019 by the Interim Steering Committee (ISC) on GBVF.

The committee comprised various stakeholders, including government departments, members of civil society organisations (CSOs), development agencies, academics, and other role-players.

The official commencement date of the NSP implementation was 1 May 2020.
The NSP provides a multi-sectoral, coherent strategic policy and programming framework to strengthen a coordinated national response to the crisis of GBVF by the South African government and the country in general.
The NSP centres around six pillars: • Accountability, Coordination and Leadership • Prevention and Rebuilding Social Cohesion • Justice, Safety and Protection • Response, Care, Support and Healing • Economic Power • Research and Information Systems The Commission for Gender Equality (CGE) undertook this study in light of the CGE’s mandate to protect, promote, and monitor gender equality in South Africa.
The purpose of the study was to review the implementation of the NSP on GBVF/NSP) by the South African government and other state-funded entities since it was formally adopted in April 2020.

The CGE assessed performance against indicators and targets using, inter alia, the NSP document.

Most of the performance indicators in the NSP are allocated a lifespan of five years (2020 to 2024), with provision for annual milestones in several cases.
However, there were targets with 2020/2021 and 2021/2022 deadlines.

In such cases, the study sought to assess performance to determine whether the targets were achieved.

The study notes that while there is an indication of progress made towards achieving some of the NSP indicators, there were several instances whereby progress could not be assessed due to the lack of performance data.
The lack of data in this regard undermined the objective of this review to give an overall impression on strides made by the country and whether progress was advanced, slow, or completely lacking in the implementation of the NSP in its first two years of roll-out.
Another observation made in this study is that the delay in the establishment of the multi-sectoral national coordination structure on GBVF has been a major setback in the country’s attempt to strengthen accountability architecture to address GBVF adequately.

The yet-to-be-established NCGBVF is assigned lead and support functions in the implementation of several indicators, as well as the overall custodianship over the NSP implementation, which involves strategic oversight and accountability.
The lack of performance information on the various indicators of the NSP points to the leadership and accountability vacuum created by delays in setting up the NCGBVF, as it is the entity earmarked to coordinate, lead, and monitor the implementation of NSP.

Poor implementation and slow progress witnessed in some NSP indicators can also be attributed to this leadership and accountability void.
2 Commission for Gender Equality The CGE emphasises that effective operational coordination is necessary among institutions assigned the lead role and those assigned the support role on the same indicators to avoid fragmentation and to strengthen accountability among key institutions working towards a common goal.

Based on the review, the current practice is, to a large extent, based on working in silos.

The CGE appreciates the cooperation of all entities that submitted information to complete the review.
The CGE also acknowledges and appreciates the hard work of the research team comprised of: Ms Naledi Selebano (Project Leader) Ms Lieketseng Mohlakoana-Motopi Ms Lindelwe Motha Mr Thabani Mdlongwa Ms Monalisa Jantjies Mr Prince Gontse Motaung 3 CGE’s assessment of the government’s implementation of the NSP on GBVF between 2020 and 2022 2023 ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS BUSA CBO CGE Business Unity South Africa Community-Based Organisation Commission for Gender Equality COGTA Cooperative Governance And Traditional Affairs COVID-19 Coronavirus Disease 2019 CSO CSVR Civil Society Organisation Centre for Study of Violence and Reconciliation DALRRD Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development DDMs DEL DCDT DHA DHS DOH District Development Models Department of Employment and Labour Department of Communications and Digital Technologies Department of Home Affairs Department of Human Settlements Department of Health DOJ&CD Department of Justice & Constitutional Development DPME DPSA DSI DSD DSBD Department of Planning Monitoring and Evaluation Department of Public Service and Administration Department of Science and Innovation Department of Social Development Department of Small Business Development DWYPD Department of Women, Youth & Persons with Disabilities EEA FBO FPB GBV GBVF GCIS Employee Equity Act Faith-Based Organisation Film and Publications Board Gender-Based Violence Gender-Based Violence and Femicide Government Communication Information System GRPBMEA Gender-Responsive Planning, Budgeting, Monitoring, Evaluation and Auditing Human Development Capabilities Approach Human Sciences Research Council Integrated Development Plans Integrated Justice System Integrated Knowledge Hub HDCA HSRC IDPs IJS IKH 4 Commission for Gender Equality ISC Interim Steering Committee LGBTQIA+ Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, Asexual Plus MMS MTEF MTSF Middle Management Service Medium-Term Expenditure Framework Medium-Term Strategic Framework NCGBVF National Council Gender-Based Violence and Femicide NEDLAC National Economic Development and Labour Council NPA NSP NT PFMA PSA SAHRC SALRC National Prosecuting Authority National Strategic Plan National Treasury Public Finance Management Act Proudly South African South African Human Rights Commission South African Law Reform Commission SAMRC South African Medical Research Council SAPS SLA SOCs SMME SMS South African Police Services Sustainability Livelihood Approach Sexual Offences Courts Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises Senior Management Services SHN Policy Special Housing Needs Policy StatsSA Statistics South Africa VSS Victim Support Services 5 CGE’s assessment of the government’s implementation of the NSP on GBVF between 2020 and 2022 2023 1.
INTRODUCTION The Commission for Gender Equality (CGE) is a national human rights institution with a Constitutional mandate to promote respect for, protection, development, and attainment of gender equality in South Africa.

The powers and functions of the CGE are found in the Commission for Gender Equality Act No.

39 of 1996, which states that the CGE must “monitor, investigate, research, educate, lobby, advise, and report on issues concerning gender equality”.
The purpose of this report is to review the implementation of the National Strategic Plan on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (NSP on GBVF) by the South African government and other state-funded entities between the 2020/2021 and 2021/2022 financial years, which were the first two years of the NSP implementation since it was formally adopted in April 2020.

The NSP stems from the GBVF Summit Declaration, which was a direct outcome of the Presidential Summit on GBVF held in November 2018.
The declaration, amongst other things, called for the development and implementation of the NSP as a key intervention to tackle the scourge of GBVF in the country.

The NSP provides a multi-sectoral, coherent strategic policy and programming framework to strengthen a coordinated national response to the crisis of GBVF by the government of South Africa, as well as the country as a whole.
The strategy has a ten-year life cycle (2020 to 2030) and was developed in 2019 by the Interim Steering Committee (ISC) on GBVF.

The committee comprised of various stakeholders, including government departments, members of civil society organisations (CSOs), development agencies, academics, and other role-players.

The official commencement date of the NSP implementation was 1 May 2020.
In 2020/2021 and in 2021/2022 the CGE tracked the implementation of the NSP as part of its broader studies to assess government programmes and initiatives to combat GBVF in the country.

The studies focused on assessing broad processes of government, including structures, plans, resources, capacity, and other key activities to address GBVF.
The current review aims to assess the performance of the government and other related institutions against indicators and targets contained in the NSP, by exploring the first and second years of NSP implementation.

6 Commission for Gender Equality 2.


BACKGROUND ON THE NSP ON GBVF According to Article 4 of the GBVF Summit Declaration, within six months of its establishment, the permanent multi-sectoral national coordinating body on GBVF would have the task of developing the NSP on GBVF, which must:1 i. be adequately costed and resourced in terms of the PFMA ii.

set out indicators to be complied with by all stakeholders, including civil society stakeholders iii.
be monitored and evaluated regularly by the national multi-sectoral coordinating body.

In the absence of a permanent multi-sectoral national coordinating body on GBVF, the Interim Steering Committee (ISC) took on the responsibility of developing the NSP on GBVF and setting up technical working teams to carry out the various tasks necessary for the development of the NSP on GBVF.
The ISC was an interim multi-stakeholder structure which owed its existence to the GBVF Summit Declaration, which states that “An Interim Gender-based Violence and Femicide Committee be established immediately with resources allocated in terms of the Public Finance Management Act of 1999 (Act No.

1 of 1999).
1 of 1999).

The declaration further gave the ISC the responsibility to (a) Establish a permanent national multi-sectoral coordinating body, and (b) Implement actions listed in this declaration, as agreed on by the said Interim Committee”.2 The ISC was allocated a life span of six months, during which it was supposed to fulfil these tasks.

The development of the NSP on GBVF was conducted jointly by CSOs and the government through the ISC.
The ISC’s drafting of the NSP on GBVF was headed by a consultant who was also responsible for the overall consolidation of the document based on feedback obtained from public or community consultative meetings.

In 2019, as part of this consultative process, the ISC conducted a series of community meetings across the country.
The NSP centres around six pillars:3 • Accountability, Coordination, and Leadership • Prevention and Rebuilding Social Cohesion • Justice, Safety, and Protection • Response, Care, Support, and Healing • Economic Power • Research and Information Systems The NSP was launched on 30 April 2020, and the implementation process commenced on 1 May 2020.

The implementation process began with key stakeholders across the six pillars meeting respectively on a weekly basis to carve out a way for the work to begin.
This soon progressed into monthly meetings where the operational processes of implementing the NSP were mapped.

At the time the CGE undertook this review, the NSP was in its third year of implementation.

1 Presidential Summit against Gender-Based Violence & Femicide.

Declaration.

2 November 2018.

2 Declaration of the Presidential Summit against Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (2 November 2018), pg.

9.

3 Ibid.
9.

3 Ibid.

7 CGE’s assessment of the government’s implementation of the NSP on GBVF between 2020 and 2022 2023 3.

PURPOSE OF THE REVIEW The purpose of this exercise is to review the implementation of the NSP by the South African government, other state-funded entities, and development agencies between the 2020/2021 and 2021/2022 financial years.

These were the first two years of the NSP implementation since it was formally adopted in April 2020.
The CGE tracked progress on the implementation of the NSP using the indicators and targets outlined in the official NSP document.

4.

RESEARCH METHODOLOGY The project aimed to monitor and review the implementation of the NSP on GBVF by the South African government between the 2020/2021 and 2021/2022 financial years, which were the first two years of NSP implementation.
The process entailed the review of the performance of the government, other state-funded entities, and development agencies regarding the roll-out of the NSP.

Although CSOs, the private sector, academia, and labour have also been allocated roles and responsibilities in the implementation of the NSP, the CGE limited the scope of its review to state-funded entities due to limited resources and time constraints.
The project had a timeline of 12 months, which was insufficient to cover all sectors identified for NSP implementation.

Therefore, the review covered government departments, state agencies, Chapter 9 institutions, statutory bodies, related entities, and development agencies that played a role in supporting government programmes and initiatives.

Data was gathered from the targeted entities that submitted written responses to the CGE.
The CGE had written to all state-funded institutions and development agencies featured in the NSP document responsible for carrying out tasks set out under the six pillars of the NSP.

Data was also gathered through desktop research from various official sources such as departmental reports, annual planning documents, annual reports, and published and unpublished documents.
The initial intention of the CGE was to utilise the NSP monitoring tool that was developed under the leadership of the Presidency and the Department of Women, Youth, and Persons with Disabilities (DWYPD) to conduct an audit of performance against indicators and targets.

However, the tool obtained from the DWYPD appeared incomplete, as an overwhelming majority of the target deadlines were yet to be determined.
The CGE, therefore proceeded to measure performance using the indicators and targets of the NSP as they appear in the official document.

Most of the performance indicators in the NSP are allocated a lifespan of five years (2020 to 2024), with provision for annual milestones in several cases.

However, there were instances where deadline targets fell within the years of this review (2020/2021 and 2021/2022).

In those instances, the CGE researchers assessed to determine whether the targets were achieved.
Otherwise, given that most targets must be achieved within five years, the assessment indicates progress towards reaching five-year targets.

8 Commission for Gender Equality 5.

LIMITATIONS OF THE STUDY Naturally, research studies are subject to limitations or shortcomings that may affect the various phases of the research process.

This study is no exception to foreseen and unforeseen constraints that may have impacted the desired outcome of the study.
Therefore, the constraints outlined below were applicable to this study.

Firstly, this study relied heavily on the cooperation of the many lead and support government departments assigned tasks and responsibilities in the NSP.

Unfortunately, the CGE research unit received very limited responses from these government departments, who are in a position to offer updated progress information regarding the work done in terms of the implementation of the NSP.
Secondly, some government departments that responded to the CGE’s request for information took longer than expected to send information, with some departments sending information that was scanty and sometimes inconsistent with what was being requested by the CGE.

Over and above that, some data was simply non- existent because government departments did not report on certain indicators comprehensively, and attempts by researchers to unearth the data yielded no results.
Thirdly, most of the targets of the NSP must be achieved annually from 2020 to 2024, which proved challenging during the review as researchers were not privy to the implementing departments’ yearly targets/milestones.

As a result, this made it difficult for the CGE to determine whether those yearly targets were achieved, particularly over the first two years of NSP implementation.
Finally, since the disbandment of the ISC and the nonexistence of the National Council on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (NCGBVF), which is meant to be the permanent coordinating structure on GBVF, the DWYPD has been heavily involved in driving the implementation of the NSP.
This means that the historically strained relationship between the CGE research unit and the DWYPD (dating back to an unfortunate incident that led to CGE researchers no longer being welcomed in NCGBVF-related meetings) affected researchers’ ability to access updated documentation and attend meetings related to the implementation of the NSP for observation purposes.
However, it must be noted that the DWYPD cooperated with the CGE by offering an official written response regarding progress on implementing indicators and targets where the department was assigned.

9 CGE’s assessment of the government’s implementation of the NSP on GBVF between 2020 and 2022 2023 6.
FINDINGS OF THE REVIEW 6.1 PILLAR 1: ACCOUNTABILITY, COORDINATION, AND LEADERSHIP Pillar 1 on Accountability, Leadership, and Coordination is centred on two key interventions, which are (1) to “Strengthen leadership and accountability across government and society to effectively respond to the GBVF crisis in a strategically and institutionally coherent way with adequate technical and financial resources”, and (2) “Effective multi-sectoral coordination by the lead agency and collaboration across different tiers of government and different sections of society based on relationships of mutual benefit and trust to give effect to the pillars of the NSP”.4 The main objective of this pillar is to develop accountability architecture through the creation of a national coordinating structure to lead the country’s efforts in addressing GBVF, as well as to strengthen accountability across government, the private sector, CSOs, and religious and cultural institutions in building a safe and GBVF-free country.
The assessment of performance under this pillar is found below.
Key interventions Key activities Indicators Target By March 2020 to March 2024 Strengthen leadership and accountability across government and society to effectively respond to the GBVF crisis in a strategically and institutionally coherent way with adequate technical and financial resources Development of an accountability architecture (national coordinating structure) undergirded by the necessary legislative mandate to drive a multisectoral response to GBVF NCGBVF established and promulgated Legislation in place Council members appointed for the national structure Operational arrangements, including budgets in place Accountability Lead department Lead: DWYPD Support: NCGBVF, Department of Justice & Constitutional Development (DOJ&CD), DWYPD Based on the NSP monitoring and evaluation framework, the deadline for the establishment of the NCGBVF, which would serve as the national coordinating structure to lead a multi-sectoral response to GBVF, was March 2020, even though it is also stated that the target deadline would run to 2024.
In addition to the establishment of the Council, the DWYPD, with the support of the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development (DOJ&CD), was expected to lead the process of the development of enabling legislation for the council, as well as to facilitate the process of appointing council members, and to see to it that the operational arrangements of the council, including budgets are put in place.
The information gathered through this review reveals that even though significant milestones had been achieved regarding bringing the legislation that supports the creation of the council into fruition, the target deadline of the 2020/2021 financial year had not been met.

This also meant that the establishment of the council could not have been achieved in the absence of the legislation that informs its governance, powers, and functions.
Targets remained unmet at the end of 2021/2022, which was the second year of the NSP implementation.

Progress achieved in relation to this target was that the National Council for Gender-Based Violence and Femicide Bill was completed and gazetted in October 2021.
4 National Strategic Plan on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide, p. 66 10 Commission for Gender Equality The DWYPD subsequently conducted public consultations over the Bill and had it submitted to Directors-General Clusters, Cabinet Committee and the National Economic Development and Labour Council (NEDLAC) for deliberations.

By November 2022, the Bill had been tabled and approved by Cabinet and gazetted for tabling in Parliament.
Key interventions Key activities Indicators Target All public servants are vetted.

Annually April 2020 to March 2024 Accountability Lead department Lead: DPSA Support: All Departments.

Put mechanisms and processes in place to hold state and societal leadership accountable for taking a firm stand against Gender Based Violence (GBV).
Strengthen leadership and accountability across government and society to effectively respond to the GBVF crisis in a strategically and institutionally coherent way with adequate technical and financial resources.

Swift action when found guilty of any form of GBV.

Regulatory framework for the functioning of religious and cultural institutions.
3-month turnaround time from a matter being reported Annually April 2020 to March 2024 Lead: DPSA, DOJ&CD Support: NCGBVF Lead Department: COGTA Support: NCGBVF Code of ethics for media reporting Annually April 2020 to March 2024 Lead: NCGBVF Support: GCIS Peer and citizen-based accountability for CSO programming Annually April 2020 to March 2024 Prompt responses to all GBVF related issues using a range of media platforms Annually April 2020 to March 2024 Lead Department: NCGBVF Support: Department of Social Development (DSD), CSOs, Development Partners Lead Department: NCGBVF Support: GCIS In terms of the key activity on “put mechanisms and processes in place to hold state and societal leadership accountable for taking a firm stand against GBV”, six indicators are listed, none of which the CGE could obtain information about regarding progress achieved in their implementation within the first two years of the NSP implementation.
The indicators are: (1) All public servants are vetted, (2) Swift action when found guilty of any form of GBV, (3) Regulatory framework for the functioning of religious and cultural institutions, (4) Code of ethics 11 CGE’s assessment of the government’s implementation of the NSP on GBVF between 2020 and 2022 2023 for media reporting, (5) Peer and citizen-based accountability for CSO programming, and (6) Prompt responses to all GBVF related issues using a range of media platforms.
A noteworthy observation is that a similar challenge of lack of information to report on performance under this key activity was experienced by the crafters of the report titled Overview of National Strategic Plan on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide Roll-Out, Year 1.5 The report focused on assessing the implementation of the NSP during its first year of roll-out.
Another noteworthy observation is that the NCGBVF, which is yet to be established, was identified as the lead entity in implementing three of the indicators, which may explain why the information was unavailable in this regard.
Accountability Lead department Lead: DWYPD Support: NCGBVF, DOJ&CD Key interventions Key activities Indicators Target Annually April 2020 to March 2024 GBVF comprehensive response model (funding, resourcing and partnership) developed for the NSP Strengthen leadership and accountability across government and society to effectively respond to the GBVF crisis in a strategically and institutionally coherent way with adequate technical and financial resources Development of a partnership model, funding and resourcing plan to respond to the crisis by locating the response in locally based structures, activism and agency within communities The key activity onevelopment of a partnership model, funding and resourcing plan to respond to the crisis by locating the response in locally based structures, activism and agency within communities” has one indicator, which is “GBVF comprehensive response model (funding, resourcing, and partnership) developed for the NSP”, and must be achieved within the first five years of the NSP implementation (2020 to 2024).
Based on the data obtained for this exercise, progress towards fulfilling this indicator was that the process of costing the NSP was reportedly6 underway, even though only 11 of 146 indicators had been costed when the CGE obtained data.

It is plausible that clear funding and resourcing plans may only follow once the NSP is fully costed.

5 The Presidency, Overview of National Strategic Plan on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide Roll-Out, Year 1.

1 May 2020 to 30 April 2021, p. 13-14.


6 Responses to the CGE by Department of Women, Youth, and Persons with Disabilities, 2022.
12 Commission for Gender Equality Key interventions Key activities Indicators Target Accountability Roles and complementarities in relation to monitoring identified and rolled out Annually April 2020 to March 2024 Ongoing Lead: NCGBVF Support: CGE, SAHRC, CLRC and Public Service Commission Strengthen leadership and accountability across government and society to effectively respond to the GBVF crisis in a strategically and institutionally coherent way with adequate technical and financial resources The CGE, South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC), CLRC and Public Service Commission institutions play a complimentary role to the NCGBVF in the monitoring of the NSP The lead entity assigned to the key activity on “the CGE, SAHRC, CLRC and Public Service Commission institutions play a complimentary role to the NCGBVF in the monitoring of the NSP” is the NCGBVF, which is not yet in place.
The key activity is allocated one indicator, which states “roles and complementarities in relation to monitoring identified and rolled out”.

There is insufficient evidence available to indicate whether any work had been undertaken to clearly set out the roles and responsibilities of all institutions assigned to this indicator on the monitoring of the NSP.
The NSP document is explicitly clear on the monitoring role of two entities: the NCGBVF and the CGE.7 The document states that the NCGBVF “shall regularly monitor and evaluate the NSP using a monitoring and evaluation tool to be developed and adopted within six months after its establishment” and that “the Commission for Gender Equality (CGE), as a Chapter 9 institution with a constitutional mandate to promote respect for gender equality, and the protection, development, and attainment of gender equality, will regularly assess and monitor progress in implementation of the GBVF NSP”.8 Roles for the SAHRC, CLRC and Public Service Commission were unspecified.
In terms of the roll-out of monitoring responsibilities, the government has performed the role under the leadership of the Presidency in the absence of the NCGBVF.
Several activities have been carried out in this regard, including the review of the NSP implementation in the first year,9 as well as the assessment carried out in the second year.10 With regard to the CGE, various research endeavours have been undertaken to assess the implementation of the NSP since its inception.11 In fact, the CGE tracked the process leading up to the development of the NSP to assess government processes, the involvement of role players, structures, and tasks and activities undertaken during that phase.
7 National Strategic Plan on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide.

2020, p. 20.

8 Ibid.

9 The Presidency.

Overview of NSP on GBVF Roll-Out, Year 1.

2021.

10 The Presidency.

Reflective Report on the Implementation of the South African National Strategic Plan on GBVF May 2020 – September 2022.

11 CGE.

2020.

Accounting for Work in Progress?

Assessing progress on the establishment of a national coordinating structure on gender-based violence, Research Report.

CGE.

2021.
CGE.

2021.

One Step Forward One Step Backwards, Research Report.

CGE.

2022.

Counting Achievements in One Hand: Assessing Current Responses and Interventions to Combat Gender-Based Violence and Femicide in South Africa.
13 CGE’s assessment of the government’s implementation of the NSP on GBVF between 2020 and 2022 2023 Key interventions Key activities Indicators Target Annually April 2020 to March 2024 Establish a Parliamentary oversight Committee for the NSP A special multi-sectoral Parliamentary committee established to oversee the implementation of the NCGBVF Strengthen leadership and accountability across government and society to effectively respond to the GBVF crisis in a strategically and institutionally coherent way with adequate technical and financial resources Accountability Lead Department Lead: Parliament Support: National, Provincial and Local Government Based on the data obtained regarding the indicator of a “special multi-sectoral parliamentary committee established to oversee the implementation of the NCGBVF”, which falls under the key activity to “establish a Parliamentary oversight Committee for the NSP”, the target was achieved within the first year of NSP roll-out.12 The Special Committee reportedly consists of Committees responsible for oversight over the departments with the roles of justice, crime prevention and security cluster, as well as governance and security cluster of committees.13 A Parliamentary Oversight Framework for a coordinated approach to addressing GBVF in the country was also developed, which requires Parliamentary Committees responsible for oversight over the Executive to ensure that the NSP is implemented.14 It is unclear whether the framework was specifically developed for the Special Committee or whether it applies broadly to all Committees of Parliament as it was not made publicly available for close examination.
Furthermore, the operations of the Special Committee, including its functions and powers, were obscure due to insufficient data.

Key interventions Key activities Indicators Target Annually April 2020 to March 2024 Accountability Lead Department Lead: DEL Support: National and provincial departments Annually by April 2020 to March 2024 Lead: NCGBVF Support: Private sector, Business and Labour Movements.
Hold private and public sector accountable for the development and roll out of sexual harassment policies and workplace strategies.

Number of private and public institutions reporting on implementation of sexual harassment policies.

Annual Accountability Social Audit Report Strengthen leadership and accountability across government and society to effectively respond to the GBVF crisis in a strategically and institutionally coherent way with adequate technical and financial resources 12 The Presidency.
Overview of NSP on GBVF Roll-Out, Year 1.
2021, p. 13 13 Ibid 14 Ibid 14 Commission for Gender Equality On the key activity to “hold private and public sector accountable for the development and roll-out of sexual harassment policies and workplace strategies”, the first indicator is the “number of private and public institutions reporting on implementation of sexual harassment policies” and was assigned to the leadership of the Department of Employment and Labour (DEL) with the support of national and provincial departments.
Based on the NSP, this target indicator is supposed to be achieved annually from 2020 to 2024.

The annual performance plans and annual reports of the DEL for 2022/2021 and 2021/2022 financial years were analysed to assess whether the department had overseen the process of private and public institutions reporting on the implementation of sexual harassment policies.

The analysis yielded no concrete evidence to suggest that the DEL had spearheaded this process.
The report on the one-year review of the NSP roll-out, however, indicates that the Department of Public Service and Administration (DPSA) had analysed the reports received from departments regarding the implementation of policy and procedure on sexual harassment in the public service and that letters of non-compliance were issued including remedial suggestions.

However, the contents of the letters were not shared with the CGE.
It was indicated that in the 2020/2021 financial year, 52 reports had been received, compared to 111 reports in 2018/2019 and 99 in 2019/2020.

This means that the number of reports has declined since the introduction of the NSP.

Regarding the second indicator on the Annual Accountability Social Audit Report, no information was available as the lead structure (NCGBVF) is not yet in place and the fact that private sector, business and labour movements are not included in this current assessment.
Key interventions Key activities Indicators Target Strengthen leadership and accountability across government and society to effectively respond to the GBVF crisis in a strategically and institutionally coherent way with adequate technical and financial resources Integration of NSP priorities in all relevant departmental and municipal plans and frameworks GRPBMEA and NSP indicators in relevant Departmental/ Sector APPs and Strategic Plans.
Annually April 2020 to March 2024 Percentage of national government and sector budgets dedicated to GBVF Accountability Lead Department Lead: DWYPD Support: DPME; NT National Departments; Provincial Departments The first indicator under the key activity “integration of NSP priorities in all relevant departmental and municipal plans and frameworks” is “GRPBMEA and NSP indicators in relevant departmental/sector APPs and strategic plans”.
Based on the two-year NSP implementation review report,15 the NSP is not yet fully integrated into the strategic plans and APPs of national and provincial departments, District One plans, and integrated development plans at the municipal level in line with GRPBMEA.

15 The Presidency.

Reflective Report on the Implementation of the South African National Strategic Plan on GBVF May 2020 – September 2022, Pg 10.
15 CGE’s assessment of the government’s implementation of the NSP on GBVF between 2020 and 2022 2023 Nonetheless, the target deadline for the achievement of this indicator is 2024.

Progress achieved towards meeting this target is that the DWYPD in 2020/2021 reviewed the APPs of 12 national departments, nine provincial departments, and nine municipalities to determine if they featured NSP targets and interventions.
The review findings indicated that all APPs encompassed GBVF priorities, although at varying degrees.

In the following year, 2021/2022, the DWYPD reviewed APPs of nine provincial departments in KwaZulu-Natal, Western Cape, and North West to establish if the NSP activities are reflected in the APPs, as well as at the district and local municipality level.
Unfortunately, the outcomes of these reviews were not shared by the department.16 In terms of the second indicator, “percentage of national government and sector budgets dedicated to GBVF”, data shows that a total of R21 billion was apportioned by government departments from their baseline allocations over the 2020/2023 Medium-Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) period.

Table 1 shows the reported budget and expenditure for 2020/2021 up to September 2022/2023.
The reported earmarked budget amounted to R20.5 billion, and as of September 2022, R10,7 billion (51% of the budget) had been spent per reports on spending submitted to the DWYPD.
Table 1: Reported budget and expenditure 2020/2023 (Source: DWYPD) Reported budget and expenditure: 2020/2023 Pillar Pillar 1 Pillar 2 Pillar 3 Pillar 4 Pillar 5 Pillar 6 Total Budget R20 299 177 R45 715 363 R4 020 375 598 R1 467 621 146 Expenditure R14 006 139 R40 068 434 R3 305 292 696 R1 246 635 996 R14 935 187 160 R6 076 522 628 R3 955 810 R3 695 843 R20 493 154 253 R10 686 221 736 Percentage spend 69.0% 87.6% 82.2% 84.9% 40.7% 93.4% 52.1% It is clear from the data provided that notable progress was achieved on this indicator as the national government made budget allocations to address GBVF.
It is important, however, to note that the task of costing the NSP is not yet complete, which incapacitates the CGE from assessing the adequacy of budgetary resources allocated towards implementing the NSP.

Key interventions with considerable financial implications such as training, land allocation and disaggregated data on preferential procurement had not been costed.

16 Responses to the CGE by Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, 2022.
16 Commission for Gender Equality Key interventions Key activities Indicators Target By April 2021 to March 2024 Adoption of zero tolerance to policies on cyber violence and sensitive reporting of GBVF Strengthen leadership and accountability across government and society to effectively respond to the GBVF crisis in a strategically and institutionally coherent way with adequate technical and financial resources Social media accountability framework developed and the adoption of zero tolerance of cyber violence Ethical guidelines on media and communicators relating to the portrayal of women and children in the media developed, implemented and monitored Accountability Lead Department Lead: DCDT Support: Film and Publications Board (FPB), national, provincial and local government, CSOs Data regarding the key activity “adoption of zero tolerance to policies on cyber violence and sensitive reporting of GBVF” and the related indicators “social media accountability framework developed and the adoption of zero tolerance of cyber violence” and “ethical guidelines on media and communicators relating to the portrayal of women and children in the media developed, implemented and monitored”, could not be obtained given that the lead department, Department of Communications and Digital Technologies (DCDT), did not respond to the CGE’s request for data regarding NSP implementation.
Additionally, data relating to the key activity was unavailable on other data sources used to write this review, such as existing NSP monitoring reports, annual reports, and other official documents.

Key interventions Key activities Indicators Target Leadership indaba at national and local levels across sectors held.

Continuous and reported biannually by April 2020 to March 2024 Strengthen leadership within and across government and non government sectors to strengthen the national response to GBVF.
Strengthen leadership and accountability across government and society to effectively respond to the GBVF crisis in a strategically and institutionally coherent way with adequate technical and financial resources Accountability Lead Department Lead: NCGBVF Support: Public, Private sector, business, labour, media, CSO Regarding the last key activity under this key intervention, which calls for the NCGBVF, with the support of public and private sectors, business, labour, media, and CSOs, to “strengthen leadership within and across government and non-government sectors to strengthen the national response to GBVF”, a single indicator that states that “leadership indaba at national and local levels across sectors held” is allocated.
The roll out for this indicator is 17 CGE’s assessment of the government’s implementation of the NSP on GBVF between 2020 and 2022 2023 continuous and biannual reporting from April 2020 to March 2024.

Based on the assessment of available data, no progress can be reported regarding this indicator given that leadership indabas were not convened by 2020, nor were there plans in place to ensure that they are held during the two years under review.
Key interventions Key activities Indicators Target Effective multi-sectoral coordination by lead agency and collaboration across different tiers of government and across different sections of society based on relationships of mutual benefit and trust to give effect to the pillars of the NSP.
Annually April 2020 to March 2024 By November 2020 to March 2024 Annually April 2020 to March 2024 Roll out of a national response to GBVF through provincial and local structures with optimal institutional arrangements and resources across government, private sector, media, NGOs, CSOs religious and cultural institutions with a specific focus on prevention and psychosocial support.
Multi-sectoral, autonomous provincial structures established and functional in each province District level service delivery model developed to respond to GBV.

Rapid Response Structures at community level / local platforms in place and harnessed to readily respond to the GBVF crisis.
Accountability Lead Department Lead: DWYPD Support: Premier offices Lead: COGTA Support: Premier offices, Municipalities, Provincial departments Lead: COGTA Support: NCGBVF, Premier offices, Municipalities, Provincial Departments.
The final key intervention, that is, “effective multi-sectoral coordination by lead agency and collaboration across different tiers of government and across different sections of society based on relationships of mutual benefit and trust to give effect to the pillars of the NSP” is made up of three key activities.
The first key activity is the “roll-out of a national response to GBVF through provincial and local structures with optimal institutional arrangements and resources across government, private sector, media, NGOs, CSOs, and religious and cultural institutions with a specific focus on prevention and psychosocial support”.

Three indicators are allocated under this key activity.

The first is “Multi-sectoral, autonomous provincial structures established and functional in each province”.
Based on the data provided by the lead department, the DWYPD,17 discussions were underway with the Premiers Offices of the nine provinces to ensure that institutional mechanisms are strengthened to respond to GBVF.

Provinces were managing the duplication and proliferation of Victim Empowerment Programmes and provincial Aids Council structures, which already exist.
It appears that contrary to creating new and autonomous structures, which is what the indicator is calling for, existing structures were being reconfigured to respond broadly to GBVF.

These structures were established and functional in the following provinces, Western Cape, Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, and Gauteng.

17 Responses to the CGE by Department of Women, Youth, and Persons with Disabilities, 2022.
18 Commission for Gender Equality In terms of the indicator on “District-level service delivery model developed to respond to GBV”, it was reported that through the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA), the NSP implementation was embedded within the District Development Model to ensure that GBVF response reaches all populations of the country.18 This progress was reported during the first year of the NSP roll-out, which potentially means that the deadline of November 2020 might have been achieved.
It appears that instead of creating the district-level service delivery model from scratch, the District Development Model was being leveraged.

However, an explanation for this development was not given.
Data relating to progress regarding the third indicator on “Rapid Response Structures at community level / local platforms in place and harnessed to readily respond to the GBVF crisis” could not be obtained as the lead department, which is COGTA, did not respond to the CGE’s letter of request for information.

Key interventions Key activities Indicators Target Establish feedback mechanisms to support the multi- sectoral approach to dealing with GBVF.
Mechanisms for civil society engagements and peer monitoring (citizen based monitoring) in place.

District level service delivery model developed to respond to GBVF Annually April 2020 to March 2024 reporting biannually Annually April 2020 to March 2024 Effective multi-sectoral coordination by lead agency and collaboration across different tiers of government and across different sections of society based on relationships of mutual benefit and trust to give effect to the pillars of the NSP.
Accountability Lead Department Lead: COGTA Support: DPME, National, provincial departments, Municipalities and CSO Lead: COGTA Support: DPME, National, provincial departments, Municipalities and CSO Regarding the key activity “establish feedback mechanisms to support the multi-sectoral approach to dealing with GBVF”, data relating to the first indicator on “mechanisms for civil society engagements and peer monitoring (citizen-based monitoring) in place” was not made available by the lead department COGTA.
Therefore, progress regarding the indicator could not be determined.

The second indicator, which is “district- level service delivery model developed to respond to GBVF” is making a second appearance, even though a set of new support departments/entities are introduced this time around, which are Department of Monitoring and Evaluation (DPME), national departments, and CSOs.

It is unclear whether separate service delivery models were meant to be developed as details are not available.
However, as already reported, the NSP implementation was embedded within the District Development Model to ensure that GBVF response reaches all corners of the country.19 18 The Presidency.

Overview of NSP on GBVF Roll-Out, Year 1.

2021, p. 16 19 The Presidency.

Overview of NSP on GBVF Roll-Out, Year 1.
2021, p. 16 19 CGE’s assessment of the government’s implementation of the NSP on GBVF between 2020 and 2022 2023 Accountability Lead Department Lead: CSO Support: Public and Private Sector, Business and Labour Key interventions Key activities Indicators Target Annually April 2020 to March 2024 on- going Mobilisation through common interest groups for policy advocacy and grassroots sensitisation on GBVF to enhance women’s ability to access, protect and promote their rights.
Number of programmes reviewed, developed and implemented to create awareness on GBVF and empowerment and promote values of the Constitution and the Bill of Rights.

Effective multi-sectoral coordination by lead agency and collaboration across different tiers of government and across different sections of society based on relationships of mutual benefit and trust to give effect to the pillars of the NSP.
Progress will not be reported for the key activity “mobilisation through common interest groups for policy advocacy and grassroots sensitisation on GBVF to enhance women’s ability to access, protect and promote their rights”, given that the lead role was assigned to CSOs, which are not the focus of the current assessment.

The support role was also allocated to most sectors not included in this assessment which are: private sector, business, and labour.
6.2 PILLAR 2: PREVENTION AND REBUILDING SOCIAL COHESION This section of the report discusses the progress that government departments and other state-funded institutions and entities allocated responsibilities under Pillar 2 of the NSP had made by the end of the two-year period under review.
The purpose of the pillar is to eliminate the social acceptance of all forms of violence against women, children, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, asexual, and other extensions (LGBTQIA+) persons and persons with disability through the development and implementation of long-term, comprehensive, adaptable, context-specific and holistic approaches to prevention that target everyone who lives in South Africa.
The focus is the multifaceted and long-term transformation of harmful social and structural norms that perpetuate GBVF and promote the reshaping of the values and norms in ways that build positive social cohesion and restore human dignity.

Additionally, the pillar seeks to shift from the notion of normalised violence to the promotion of programmes that target the social norms and beliefs that families and communities instil through primary socialisation.
Socialisation imparts unspoken rules that both proscribe and prescribe behaviours that present GBV as a normative behaviour within South African society.20 The prevention pillar has five key interventions with prescribed key activities, indicators, and targets.
20 Ibid 20 Commission for Gender Equality Key partners for Pillar 2 include all government departments at national, provincial, and local levels; the END GBVF Collective; civil society including the faith-based sector; labour unions and social movements; the private sector; local, regional, and international development partners; research and subject experts, and especially the various communities across the country and traditional leaders.21 However, for this report, attention will be paid to the performance of government and state-funded entities in this regard.
Key interventions Key activities Indicators Target Strengthen the delivery capacity of South Africa to roll out effective prevention programmes Develop a comprehensive national prevention strategy National prevention strategy with key overarching messages in place Annually April 2020 to March 2024 Accountability Lead department Lead: DWYPD Support: DBE, Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET), DSD, COGTA, GCIS, CSOs, All departments The first intervention is to “strengthen the delivery capacity of South Africa to roll out effective prevention programmes”.
The key activity was to “develop a comprehensive national prevention strategy”.

With respect to this, the DWYPD, with the support of the development partners, developed a comprehensive national GBVF prevention strategy which was approved for implementation.22 The Comprehensive National GBVF Prevention Strategy was developed during the 2021/2022 financial year.

The GBVF secretariat coordinated the consultative process prior to its development to ensure the comprehensiveness and inclusivity of the strategy.
Information obtained regarding the strategy indicates that extensive consultations were undertaken with various stakeholders, such as government departments, development agencies, CSOs, institutions of higher learning, and others.

The GBVF coordination structures approved the strategy and it was then adopted by the cabinet.
The GBVF secretariat led the process of popularising the prevention strategy and providing an enabling environment for its institutionalisation among implementing entities.23 The second prevention strategy is the Integrated Crime and Violence Prevention Strategy (ICVPS) developed by the South African Police Service (SAPS).
The strategy was developed as a build-up and a replacement of the 1996 National Crime Prevention Strategy (NCPS) and to give effect to the provisions of the 2016 White Paper on Safety and Security, which the Cabinet approved on 23 March 2022 for implementation.

The ICVPS focuses on the prevention of crime and violence in communities and proposes a whole-of-government and whole-of- society approach by acknowledging that safety is the responsibility of all.
The ICVPS sets out a comprehensive, collaborative framework for crime and violence prevention in the country.

21 Reflective Report on the Implementation of the South African National Strategic Plan on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide May 2020 – September 2022 22 Reflective Report on the Implementation of the South African National Strategic Plan on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide May 2020 – September 2022 23 DWYPD Progress Report 2022.
21 CGE’s assessment of the government’s implementation of the NSP on GBVF between 2020 and 2022 2023 The third prevention strategy, the National Integrated Strategy on the Prevention of Femicide (NISPF), was developed by the South African Medical Research Council as commissioned by the DOJ&CD.

The key strategic objectives for the national femicide prevention strategy are developed in alignment with the Emergency Response Action Plan (ERAP) and NSP on GBVF.
The strategy also allocates various departments’ responsibilities, where some assume the lead department role and are tasked with ensuring that the strategic plan is effectively operationalised.24 This information demonstrates that the target has been met since the adoption of the NSP GBVF, and three prevention strategies have been developed, adopted, and are being implemented.
Accountability Lead department Lead: Brand SA, GCIS Support: DWYPD, National, Provincial Local Government, CSO Key interventions Key activities Indicators Target Communication and advocacy campaigns Strengthen the delivery capacity of South Africa to roll out effective prevention programmes Implement continuously and report biannually Communication toolkit with list of key messages and targeted sources of media developed Sustained media campaign for 365 days by all departments led by GCIS, providing information including awareness Number of multimedia campaigns implemented and different sources used A communication toolkit with a list of key messages and targeted sources of media-developed indicators is led by GCIS, which has ensured that the messaging on GBVF issues is covered and disseminated across all GCIS products and platforms.
The issues are covered predominantly through the Vuk’uzenzele newspaper, SANews, and all GCIS’ social media platforms.

SANews, Vuk’uzenzele newspaper, and the PSM magazine published over 50 articles covering work done by the government in the GBVF space.

The articles were also placed on several government social media platforms.

Moreover, several activities were implemented by the GCIS provincial offices in partnership with local stakeholders.
The GBVF issues are also communicated through a government system-wide communication platform, which includes regular Communication Committee meetings of clusters and the sharing of communication toolkits for the issuance of key messages to ensure that government speaks with one voice.

24 Abrahams, N., Ramsoomar, L.; Shai, N. 2021.

National Integrated Strategy on the Prevention of Femicide in South Africa: An evidence and practice informed approach to preventing femicide.
Pretoria: South Africa, South African Medical Research Council: 1-32.

22 Commission for Gender Equality Other platforms utilised by GCIS include community media engagements, community dialogues, and community activations.25 This information indicates progress in increasing messaging and disseminating it widely through the GCIS’ platforms to ensure that government speaks in one voice on issues related to GBVF in the country.
There is no information related to achievements in relation to the indicator on the 365 Days of Activism campaign being implemented by all departments led by GCIS.

However, there have been numerous activities implemented by other role players, such as the DSD, regarding the 365 Days of Activism campaign.

The DSD is coordinating 365 days of activities across the provinces, where other government departments are expected to conduct at least two outreach interventions per month.
Moreover, the North West Province departments have, in partnership with the CSOs, intensified campaigns on GBVF through door-to-door campaigns, the Orange Day campaigns, public education, prayer events, marches, distribution of promotional material, and other events.

They are further implementing the men’s programme across four districts, with the Monna Emelela Programme launched in Dr Kenneth Kaunda and Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati Districts.
There have also been launches of District Men’s Forums in Ngaka Modiri Molema and Bojanala Districts.

These structures aimed to engage men in the initiatives of fighting against GBVF and encourage them to model positive masculine behaviour within their respective communities.
Under the DBE’s multimedia campaign, the Social Cohesion and Equity in Education Programme held a workshop with stakeholders on communication and messaging for school-related gender-based violence (SRGBV), including promoting positive masculinities.

The messaging instils debate and discussions on SRGBV.

The multimedia campaign was carried out through DBE’s various social media, web-based, online, and digital platforms, including national television and radio advertorials.
The findings indicate that several sustained anti-GBVF multimedia campaigns were implemented using multimedia platforms, including GCIS, community dialogues, social media posts, webinars, public education, radio talk shows, and multi-sectoral initiatives.

Progress in this regard has thus been noted.


25 GCIS 2021/2022 Annual Report 23 CGE’s assessment of the government’s implementation of the NSP on GBVF between 2020 and 2022 2023 Key interventions Key activities Indicators Targets Strengthen the delivery capacity of South Africa to roll out effective prevention programmes Train and support community capacity to deliver GBVF prevention intervention % of CDWs trained in GBV doing prevention work.
Implemented continuously and reported biannually Implemented continuously and reported biannually Implemented continuously and reported biannually % of CHCWs26 trained in GBV doing prevention work Community level activists and GBV service organisations trained and rolling out prevention programmes Roll out and training of district level coordinators.
Implemented continuously and reported biannually Accountability Lead departments Lead: DSD, NSG, Support: NGCBVF, COGTA, Municipalities Lead: DOH, NSG, Support: NCGBVF, Provincial Health Departments Lead: NCGBVF & COGTA Support: DSD, Provincial Departments and Municipalities Lead: NCGBVF & COGTA Support: DSD, Provincial Departments and Municipalities Regarding the key activity “train and support community capacity to deliver GBVF prevention intervention”, 14 female community development workers (CDWs) were trained on the LCCGE course.
However, it is not clear what percentage of CDWs was covered in total.

Training workshops with provincial houses of traditional and Khoi-San leaders in eight provinces were conducted to amplify the initial Project Ndabezitha designed by the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) to amplify the role of traditional leaders in fighting GBVF.

Capacity-building initiatives were conducted, including online training courses for frontline workers and a National Inclusive Safer Schools (NISS) Toolkit.
There has also been intensive work in schools, through life skills classes, sports, and peer learning, to empower young changemakers.

Furthermore, programmes for men were developed to educate men about the importance of their role in addressing GBVF, especially in uprooting toxic masculinities that perpetuate violence against women.

In terms of the indicator “roll out and training of district level coordinators”, information was not available.
In a broad sense, data in this regards indicates that strides have been made in relation to the indicators under the “train and support community capacity to deliver GBVF prevention intervention” key activity.

26 Community Health Care Workers 24 Commission for Gender Equality Accountability Lead departments Lead: NCGBV Support: NSG, DBE, DHET, academic institutions, training institutions.
Key interventions Key activities Indicators Targets Manuals and training support materials developed and accessible for all disability groups.

Range of standardised and flexible materials in place reviewed and adapted annually.
Strengthen the delivery capacity of South Africa to roll out effective prevention programmes Develop and collate transformative materials, curriculum, tools, and approaches that can be adapted for prevention interventions for different institutional and social contexts and meet diverse needs.
Regarding the indicator “manuals and training support materials developed and accessible for all disability groups”, available information illustrates that while strides were made to develop GBVF-related training support material, it was notable that the material was not accessible for all disability groups as the print material was not brailed.

The target in this regard further requires that a “range of standardised and flexible materials in place be reviewed and adapted annually”.
The research team could not determine if the review took place.

In supporting this indicator, the DWYPD developed the following: • Pictorial summary of NSP on GBVF titled Get to Know Your NSP, which summarises the NSP and provides activities that demonstrate and present indicators and targets in a succinct and easy way.

• NSP on GBVF’s Monitoring and Evaluation Framework and reporting tool developed by the DWYPS guides key stakeholders in the NAP implementation.
• Guidelines for rapid response teams 25 CGE’s assessment of the government’s implementation of the NSP on GBVF between 2020 and 2022 2023 Key interventions Key activities Indicators Targets Challenge and transform toxic masculinities driving GBVF perpetration Commission studies to better understand how to intervene in the development of toxic masculinities in South Africa Annually –August 2020 to March 2024 Strategic interventions for boys were identified and rolled out Strategic interventions with young men in post- school education and training system (PSET), unemployed and working identified, and rolled out Accountability Lead departments Lead: NCGBVF and research institutions, DBE Support: DHET, DSD, National Centre on Violence and Crime Prevention, CSO Notably, some of the indicators of the GBVF NSP are allocated to the leadership of the NCGBVF, which is not yet established.
Performance information regarding some of these indicators was thus unavailable, just as in the case of the indicator on “strategic interventions for boys identified and rolled out”.

DHET, in response to GBVF within the PSET sector, developed a policy framework to address GBVF in the PSET sector in 2020.

Higher Health developed the policy in consultation with all 26 universities, Technical Vocational and Educational Training (TVETs), PSET system management, student leadership and student bodies.
This was part of establishing an enabling environment within DHET and PSET institutions to ensure effective and efficient implementation of the GBVF Policy Framework and that the PSET GBVF Technical Task Team is established.

The policy advocates for a multi-faceted approach to addressing GBV.

This approach includes prevention and information about GBVF policies and programmes, including social mobilisation activities and campaigns to promote safety on and off campus.
The policy covers established structures; principles of confidentiality, trust and empathy; complaints processes and procedures; support to complainants; and (where possible) assistance to the perpetrator in changing their behaviour.27 This policy addresses the PSET community in its diversity of gender, class, race, culture, religion, and age.
In line with the activities geared toward rooting out toxic forms of masculinities, multi-sectoral partnerships were established to address the indicators as stated, resulting in strategic interventions within the traditional leadership to challenge harmful traditional behaviours/practices in at least three provinces.

Moreover, several workshops relating to prevention took place with men’s groups.
In addition, integrated (VEP, social crime, and anti-substance abuse) education and awareness campaigns were conducted at several institutions of higher learning, covering anti-substance abuse awareness campaigns in 12 institutions of higher learning reaching over 2 500 students.

Another initiative was “What about the Boys?” which was implemented by Primestar to deal with toxic forms of masculinities through a film shown in schools.28 27 Department of Higher Education and Training.

2020.
Policy Framework to Address Gender-Based Violence In the Post-School Education and Training System: DHET 28 Reflective Report on The Implementation of the South African National Strategic Plan On Gender-Based Violence And Femicide May 2020 – September 2022 26 Commission for Gender Equality Key interventions Key activities Indicators Targets Challenge and transform toxic masculinities driving GBVF perpetration Design and adapt interventions that provide skills that shape new forms of positive masculinities Annually August 2020 to March 2024 Annually August 2020 to March 2024 Annually August 2020 to March 2024 Strategic interventions to shift behaviour in men rolled out (e.g.
brothers for life) Strategic interventions targeting men in their role as fathers piloted and rolled out.
Strategic interventions focused on building gender equitable approaches to communication and relationships is rolled out using religious institutions and workplaces as possible platforms Accountability Lead departments Lead: NCGBVF & Research Institutions Support: DHET, DSD, National Centre on Violence and Crime Prevention, CSO, media, national and provincial departments, municipalities, business, labour Lead: NCGBVF & Research Institutions Support: DHET, DSD, National Centre on Violence and Crime Prevention, CSO, media, national and provincial departments, municipalities, business, labour Lead: NCGBVF & Research Institutions Support: DHET, DSD, National Centre on Violence and Crime Prevention, CSO, media, national and provincial departments, municipalities, business, labour The Men Championing Change (MCC) Programme is one of the initiatives implemented in this regard.
The programme was implemented through various interventions such as dialogues, workshops, special events, and collaborations with non-profit organisations (NPOs), traditional leaders, churches, and local municipalities.

There were 79 639 (120%) men and boys trained against an annual target of 66 200 as a result of this programme.
The programme also benefited from the support of the Deputy Minister of Social Development, Hendrietta Bagopane-Zulu, who contributed towards increasing the visibility of the programme and helped in mobilizing strategic partners.

In addition to the structured MCC programme, the SANAC men’s sector, Azali Health convened 33 men’s parliaments and nine boys’ summits in various districts.
The SANAC men’s sector mobilised these events in partnership with local municipalities, traditional leaders, and church leaders and drew large numbers of men.

During these sessions, men and boys discussed and devised solutions for tackling social and structural challenges confronting communities, particularly GBVF.29 While these initiatives appear relevant, it is unclear how religious institutions and workplaces were used as platforms as required by the indicator.
29 SANAC Annual Report, 2020 27 CGE’s assessment of the government’s implementation of the NSP on GBVF between 2020 and 2022 2023 Key intervention Key activities Indicators Targets Lead departments Change behaviour and social norms that drive GBV with key groups using variety of approaches Adapt and roll out school-based GBV prevention programmes Number of schools with programmes especially designed and rolled out to address GBVF Views and perceptions from young people on GBVF used to track attitudes Annually April 2020 to March 2024 Lead: DBE, Support: Provincial Departments of Education, DSD Behavioural change interventions targeting learners, educators, and parents have been rolled out in schools.
In light of this, the National Gender Responsive Pedagogy Toolkit was revised.

Three provinces underwent master training on the toolkit, while five provinces were on-boarded for master training on Gender Responsive Pedagogy in Early Childhood Development.

Additionally, learner leaders in two provinces were provided with the opportunity to make inputs on reporting and managing sexual harassment of learner cases and learner-led school-based early violence prevention campaigns/interventions.
Multi-sectoral partnerships in this regard resulted in the following: (a) The establishment of a national GBVF Youth Steering Committee to support and guide national SAPS on GBVF prevention interventions targeting youth, and (b) A 24-hour national crisis line for all students needing support for GBV and mental health issues was established, dialogues were held with over 8 000 students, and risk assessments for GBV were held with more than 6 000 students.
28 Commission for Gender Equality Key interventions Key activities Indicators Targets Lead departments Change behaviour and social norms that drive GBV with key groups using variety of approaches Implement programmes to prevent GBVF and eliminate the scourge of GBVF in the PSET Annually April 2020 to March 2024 Annually April 2020 to March 2024 Implemented continuously and reported biannually Lead: DHED Support: PSET Institutions, NCGBVF Lead: DHET Support: PSET Institutions, CSO, National and Provincial departments Lead: DHET Support: PSET, CSO, National and Provincial departments Policy Framework to address GBV in PSET system approved National and institutional accountability and enabling environment is in place to curb and address GBV in PSET institutions National support for PSET institutions is effected in the implementation of GBV policies and provides proper support and assistance to victims of GBV with an effective and comprehensive specialised referral system The policy framework that addresses GBV in PSET is in place as it was adopted in 2020.
The policy provides for the systems to be implemented to ensure national and institutional accountability and that an enabling environment is in place to curb and address GBV in PSET institutions.
29 CGE’s assessment of the government’s implementation of the NSP on GBVF between 2020 and 2022 2023 Accountability Lead departments Lead: NCGBVF Support: COGTA, DSD, DSAC, CSO, Provincial and National Departments, Municipalities Key interventions Key activities Indicators Targets Change behaviour and social norms that drive GBV with key groups using variety of approaches Implement evidence-based behaviour change interventions with targeted communities Annually August 2020 to March 2024 Evidence based behaviour changes interventions adapted and rolled out in specific geographical communities.
Intervention for traditional leaders and healers developed and roll out.

Intervention for religious leaders adapted and rolled out Behaviour change - interventions to shift attitudes and behaviours within the public sector adapted and rolled out.

As explained, the NCGBVF, the leading institution on the above key intervention, is not yet established.

Nonetheless, support departments have made efforts towards achieving indicators.
Some initiatives have been undertaken, including strategic behavioural change interventions targeting learners, educators, parents and community members.

Moreover, the National Gender Responsive Pedagogy Toolkit was revised.

Three provinces underwent related key training and five provinces were on-boarded for key training on Gender Responsive Pedagogy in Early Childhood Development.
30 Commission for Gender Equality Key interventions Key activities Indicators Targets Change behaviour and social norms that drive GBV with key groups using variety of approaches Develop context- specific home grown GBVF prevention interventions.

Annually April 2020 to March 2024 Annually -April 2020 to March 2024 Continuous assessment of community and institutional prevention interventions that are effective and have potential for wider impact.
Strategic community outreach interventions to raise awareness and generate acceptance of different expressions and forms of Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity (SOGI) rolled out Accountability Lead departments Lead: NCGBVF Support: COGTA, DSD, DSAC, CSO, Provincial and National Departments, Municipalities Lead: NCGBVF Support: COGTA, DSD, DSAC, CSO, Provincial and National Departments, Municipalities As part of media coverage for the Men Championing Change (MCC), Social and Behaviour Change (SBC) Programme supported by the DSD and led by the South African National Aids Council (SANAC) Civil Society Forum (CSF) men’s sector conducted programmes:30 Five men’s parliaments were held: • Springbok, Northern Cape Province • Newcastle KwaZulu-Natal Province • Dr Ruth Mompati District in the North West Province • Waterberg District in Modimolle in Limpopo Province • Buffalo City Municipality in Eastern Cape Province.
30 SANAC Annual Report 2020 31 CGE’s assessment of the government’s implementation of the NSP on GBVF between 2020 and 2022 2023 Boys’ assemblies were held: • Pongola in KwaZulu-Natal Province • Vereeniging in Gauteng Province • Dr Ruth Mompati District in the North West Province • Polokwane Municipality in Seshego in Limpopo Province • Ehlanzeni District in Bushbuckridge in Mpumalanga Province • OR Tambo District in Eastern Cape Province • George, Knysna, and Garden Route District in Western Cape Province.
However, it was unclear how these programmes were continuously assessed to determine their effectiveness in the community and as institutional preventions as required by the indicator.

Furthermore, the DSD indicated that it was continuing its work to support the GBV Command Centre, which falls under the Victim Empowerment Programme.

The GBV Command Centre’s Programme focuses on transforming people’s attitudes, practices, and behaviour change.
The programme is inter-sectoral and inter-departmental based on partnerships with the government, CSOs, volunteers, businesses, academics, and research institutions.31 The development of the guidelines on socio-educational inclusion of diverse sexual orientation, gender identity, expression, and sex characteristics (SOGIESC) in schools got underway.

The programme focuses on promoting SOGIESC awareness through community outreach interventions, leading to wider acceptance in the communities.
Key interventions Key activities Indicators Targets Harness approaches to prevention that facilitate integration and deepen impact.

Use parenting and ECD programmes to build non- violent and gender transformative approaches to parenting Evidence- based parenting programmes rolled out GBV prevention integrated into roll out of ECD programme.
Annually April 2020 to March 2024 Accountability Lead departments Lead: DBE & DSD Support: DOH, NCGBVF, CSOs, Municipalities There was poor reporting on work done in this area, presenting a crucial gap in monitoring the implementation of the NSP.

31 https://gbv.org.za/programmes/ 32 Commission for Gender Equality Key interventions Key activities Indicators Targets Harness approaches to prevention that facilitate integration and deepen impact.
Integrate GBVF prevention into SRHR and HIV prevention interventions.

SRHR awareness and HIV prevention interventions integrate GBVF prevention component.
Annually April 2020 to March 2024 Accountability Lead departments Lead: DOH, SANAC Support: DSD, GBVF Council, CSOs, UNFPA, National and Provincial government, Municipalities Progress reported under this indicator was that one of the programmes established as an initiative of implementing the NSP was the Rock Traditional Leaders Programme, which capacitates traditional leaders on HIV prevention and sexual and reproductive health and rights.
Under this programme, 1 767 traditional leaders were trained, which was 21.4% of actual performance, as the target was 8 241.

Through this programme, traditional leaders were also expected to lead HIV prevention and GBV activities in their communities.

Key interventions Key activities Indicators Targets Harness approaches to prevention that facilitate integration and deepen impact.

Integrate GBVF prevention into wider violence and crime prevention.
Community level violence prevention programmes integrate GBVF prevention Annually - April 2020 to March 2024 Accountability Lead departments Lead: NCGBVF, SAPS Support: DSD, DOJ&CD, CSOs Although one of the lead institutions, NCGBVF, has not yet been established under this indicator, performance data was also not made available by the co-lead department and the various support departments in this regard.
Key intervention Key activities Indicators Targets Harness approaches to prevention that facilitate integration and deepen impact.

Integrate GBV prevention into SOGI programming and vice versa SOGI violence prevention integrated into GBV prevention programming GBV prevention integrated into SOGI programmes.
Annually April 2020 to March 2024 Accountability Lead departments Lead: NCGBVF, DOJ&CD Support: DBE, DHET, DEL, NSG Dialogues on LGBTQIA+ violence prevention took place in the Dr Kenneth Kaunda District, leading to the development of the Golekane Programme that targets schools and the community.

It is also noted that the North West DoH also conducted a GBV dialogue targeting 100 LGBTIQA+ in April 2022.
33 CGE’s assessment of the government’s implementation of the NSP on GBVF between 2020 and 2022 2023 Key interventions Key activities Indicators Targets Lead departments Harness approaches to prevention that facilitate integration and deepen impact.

Integrate GBVF prevention into substance abuse interventions.
Substance abuse (drugs and alcohol) interventions integrate GBVF prevention component Annually April 2020 to March 2024 Lead: DOH and DSD Support: NCGBVF, CSOS, UNODC Data obtained by the CGE revealed that NPOs, in partnership with DBE, DOH, SAPS, local municipalities, and traditional authorities hosted social-and-behaviour-change-related campaigns that covered topics related to substance abuse and its impact on GBV.32 Key interventions Key activities Indicators Targets Restore human dignity, build caring and safe communities that is responsive to individual and collective trauma Make public spaces and violent free for women and children.
Gender-responsive IDPS integrate safety audits and interventions Annually -August 2020 to March 2024 Public transport safety interventions in place Annually August 2020 to March 2024 Proportion of safe parks for children Implemented continuously and reported quarterly Accountability Lead departments Lead: COGTA and SALGA Support: DEA, DSAC, DSD, NCGBVF, Municipalities.
Leads: DOT & COGTA Support: GBVF Council Provincial Departments of Transport, Municipalities, Business, Labour Lead: COGTA & DSD Support: UNICEF, CSOs, Municipalities Performance information in this area revealed that the GBVF NSP had been enshrined into the provincial integrated development plans (IDPs) and direct development models (DDMs) to ensure they are allocated resources and implemented effectively.

However, it is unclear whether the IDPs integrate safety audits and interventions.
Data regarding the indicator on “public transport safety interventions in place” was not accessible, and no progress was reported on the issue of safe parks for children.33 32 SANAC Annual Report 2020 33 Reflective Report on the Implementation of the South African National Strategic Plan on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide May 2020 – September 2022 34 Commission for Gender Equality Key interventions Key activities Indicators Targets Restore human dignity, build caring and safe communities that is responsive to individual and collective trauma Facilitate community interventions that promote social connectedness and healing.
Lay mental health workers trained.

Annually April 2021 to March 2024 Implemented continuously and reported quarterly Annually April 2020 to March 2024 Circles of Healing/ Ubuntu rolled out Community Building through non-violent art forms Strategic conversations on the collapsed social and moral fibre in society spearheaded by the Social Cluster, working with the Moral Regeneration Movement (MRM).

Relevant information was not available on this key activity.
Key interventions Key activities Indicators Targets Restore human dignity, build caring and safe communities that is responsive to individual and collective trauma Implementation of the National Action Plan to Combat Racism, Racial Discrimination, Xenophobia and Related Intolerance.

Rapid Response mechanism instituted by 2022 to April 2024 Annually April 2020 to March 2024 Rapid Response Mechanism to respond to incidents of racist and xenophobic offences/hate crimes.
Virtual data repository on disaggregated statistical data for measurement of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance Accountability Lead departments Lead: NCGBVF & DOH, DSAC, DSD Support: COGTA, CSOs, faith-based organisation (FBOs), Moral Regeneration Movement (MRM) structures, traditional structures, national and provincial government, municipalities Accountavility Lead departments Lead: DOJ&CD Support: NCGBVF, national and provincial departments, municipalities CSOs, Chapter 9 institutions 35 CGE’s assessment of the government’s implementation of the NSP on GBVF between 2020 and 2022 2023 During the 2021/2022 financial year, the DOJ&CD initiated the implementation of the National Action Plan to combat racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia, and related intolerance in order to advance constitutionalism, human rights and the rule of law.
However, no information could be obtained regarding the rapid response mechanism to respond to incidents of racist and xenophobic offences/hate crimes as required by the indicator above.

There was also no information on the indicator “virtual data repository on disaggregated statistical data for measurement of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia, and related intolerance”.
6.3 PILLAR 3: PROTECTION, SAFETY AND JUSTICE According to the NSP on GBV, this pillar sets out to address the systemic challenges that have resulted in an inadequate response to the management of GBVF cases, particularly domestic violence, sexual offences, child homicide, human trafficking, and other related matters.
Furthermore, the aim is to facilitate access to justice, safety, and protection in response to the needs of victims of GBV using domestic legislation, policies, and international and regional protocols, as well as addressing the infrastructural and resource challenges that have obstructed the optimal delivery of justice to various survivors.34 The findings below aim to indicate the progress made in achieving some of the key activities per the requirements of Pillar 3 in the NSP.
Key interventions Key activities Indicators Target Accountability Lead department Systems in place by April 2020 to March 2024.

Ongoing monitoring and adjustment annually.

Lead: DOJ&CD Support: Parliament, national, provincial, local government, CSOs Improve access to survivor support services through a victim centric criminal justice service that is sensitive to and meets their needs.

Humanising service delivery and address unequal and inequitable spread of victim services.
Interventions in place to respond to specific barriers that all victims may face in accessing services, and specifically people with disability and LGBTQIA+ persons Information on cases is readily available for victims to access and track progress Pillar 3 is broken into three key interventions.
The first intervention is focused on improving access to survivor support services through a victim-centric criminal justice service that is sensitive to and meets victims’ needs.35 This intervention has four key activities.
The first activity is “humanising service delivery and addressing the unequal and inequitable spread of victim services” and has two indicators: (i) Interventions in place to respond to specific barriers that all victims may face in accessing services, specifically people with disability and LGBTQIA+ persons, and (ii) Information on cases is readily available for victims to access and track progress.
In this case, the lead departments are DOJ&CD, supported by Parliament, national, provincial, local government, and CSOs.

The roll out is annual ongoing monitoring and an adjustment period from April 2020 to March 2024.

34 National Strategic Plan on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide.

2020, p. 48.

35 National Strategic Plan on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide.

2020, p. 72.
2020, p. 72.

36 Commission for Gender Equality The NSP on GBV Year 1 roll-out report of 2020 to 2021 indicated a development of the SMS notification system launched in all district courts on 28 January 2021 for all applications of domestic violence protection orders to be received directly from the complainants.36 Moreover, the DOJ&CD finalised 50% of the development of the solution for online applications for domestic violence and harassment protection orders.
This will enable survivors of domestic violence to apply for protection orders remotely.

This online application solution aims to reduce the turnaround time in finalising domestic violence matters.37 Accountability Lead department Lead: DOJ&CD, SAPS, NPA, DOH Support: National, provincial, local government, CSO Lead: DOJ&CD, SAPS, NPA, DCS, SAJEI, DoH Key interventions Key activities Indicators Target Number of officials trained within the CJS dealing with GBVF matters.
Annually April 2020 to March 2024 Debriefing support mechanisms in place.

Ongoing Improve access to survivor support services through a victim centric criminal justice service that is sensitive to and meets their needs.
GBV Service Delivery Training and support is provided to all service providers within the CJS dealing with GBVF matters (including police, prosecutors, magistrates, intermediaries, court preparation officers, court clerks, health care providers, and policymakers) to strengthen victim- centric survivor- focused services and prevent any forms of secondary victimisation The second key activity in this intervention focuses on “GBV service delivery training and support is provided to all service providers within the CJS dealing with GBVF matters (including police, prosecutors, magistrates, intermediaries, court preparation officers, court clerks, health care providers, and policymakers) to strengthen victim-centric survivor-focused services and prevent any forms of secondary victimisation”.
The key activity has an allocation of two indicators: (i) Number of officials trained within the CJS dealing with GBVF matters, and (ii) Debriefing support mechanisms in place.

The roll-out period is aimed to be annually from April 2020 to March 2024 on an ongoing process, led by the DOJ&CD, SAPS, NPA, DOH, SAJEI, and DCS, and supported by national, provincial, local government, and CSOs.
The NSP on GBV Year 1 roll-out report 2020 to 202138 has noted that 272 of the 919 targets set for 2020/2021 police officials were trained on dealing with GBVF.

Moreover, 104 police officials were trained for reactive intervention, which was 18.4% of the 565 targets set out for 2020/2021.

36 Overview of National Strategic Plan on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide Roll-Out.2021, p. 34.

37 Ibid.
37 Ibid.

38 Ibid 37 CGE’s assessment of the government’s implementation of the NSP on GBVF between 2020 and 2022 2023 Furthermore, it alluded that the NPA conducted eight sessions of Social Context Awareness Training for prosecutors and integrated stakeholders, which included topics on LGBTQIA+.

The NPA also conducted integrated training for Thuthuzela Care Centers (TCC) stakeholders nationally.
The NPA developed a training manual for the TCCs training, which is currently being reviewed and will be updated annually.
Data obtained also show that there has been a trauma debriefing of at least 3 409 officials in 2020/2021.39 Key interventions Key activities Indicators Target By April 2021 Compensation and Restitution for victims of crime and enforcement mechanism in place Improve access to survivor support services through a victim centric criminal justice service that is sensitive to and meets their needs.
Finalised investigation in respect of reparations for victims of crime and develop enforcement mechanisms for compensation restitution espoused by the Victims Charter.

Accountability Lead department Lead: SALRC Support: GBVF Council, National, provincial, local government, CSO The third key activity focuses on “finalised investigations in respect of reparations for victims of crime and develop enforcement mechanisms for compensation restitution espoused by the Victims Charter”.
The key activity has one indicator, which is “compensation and restitution for victims of crime and enforcement mechanism to be put in place”.

The target deadline for the achievement of this indicator was April 2021.

The CGE could not assess performance under this indicator as data was not available.

Key interventions Key activities Indicators Target Emergency Fund.

April 2021 to March 2024 Provide funding to survivors of GBVF to meet specific needs such as legal aid costs.
Improve access to survivor support services through a victim centric criminal justice service that is sensitive to and meets their needs.

Accountability Lead department Lead: NCGBVF Support: national, provincial, local government, CSO The last key activity under this key intervention is funding survivors of GBVF to meet specific needs such as legal aid costs.

The creation of the Emergency Fund is the indicator for this activity, and roll out is from April 2020 to March 2024.
Data in this regard was not available.

39 Overview of National Strategic Plan on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide Roll-Out.

2021, p. 35.

38 Commission for Gender Equality Key interventions Key activities Indicators Target Strengthen capacity within the CJS to address impunity and Facilitate justice for GBV survivors.
Resourcing of infrastructure and human capacity to facilitate effective service delivery; (detective, forensic, investigation, and prosecution) at FCS units, TCCS and SOCs Number of TCCs Units established.

Annually April 2020 to March 2024 Number of Courts upgraded into SOCs.

Annually April 2020 to March 2024 Number of FCS Units upgraded.
Annually – April 2020 to March 2024 Accountability Lead department Lead: DOH / NPA/ SAPS Support: DSD, DOJ&CD This key intervention focuses on strengthening capacity within the CJS to address impunity and facilitate justice for GBV survivors.

This intervention has four key activities.

The first key activity is resourcing infrastructure and human capacity to facilitate effective service delivery; (detective, forensic, investigation, and prosecution) at FCS units, TCCs, and SOCs.
The activity has three indicators: (i) Number of TCCs Units to be established, (ii) Number of Courts to be upgraded into SOCs, and (iii) Number of FCS Units upgraded.

All indicators roll out is annual progress from April 2020 to March 2024.

The lead departments are the DOH, NPA, and SAPS and are supported by DSD and DOJ&CD.
Regarding the first indicator, a list of facilities that were earmarked to be designated by the Minister of Health for TCCs was finalised, audited in 2020, and was awaiting approval and publishing in the government gazette.

The NPA has also proceeded with logistics and facilitation regarding establishing six new TCCs nationally.
With regard to the second indicator, data40 obtained by the CGE indicated that 32 Regional Courts were ready for designation into Sexual Offences Courts in terms of Section 55A of the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences and Related Matters) Amendment Act of 2007.

The courts were developed by a task team represented by the judiciary, NPA, Legal Aid SA, and Rape Crisis Cape Town, as well as equally chaired by the DOJ&CD.
In terms of the FCS, it was noted that 312 (6.24%) of 5 000 new entrants had been trained to be allocated to the FCS to capacitate the units by September 2020.

Key interventions Key activities Indicators Target Strengthen capacity within the CJS to address impunity and Facilitate justice for GBV survivors.

Clearing of the backlog of cases related to GBV.

Number of GBVF cases cleared.


Annually April 2020 to March 2024 Case management system upgraded Annually April 2020 to March 2024 40 Overview of National Strategic Plan on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide Roll-Out.

2021, p. 35.
2021, p. 35.

Accountability Lead department Lead: SAPS Support: DOJ&CD, NPA, Judiciary, Legal Aid SA Lead: SAPS Support: DOJ&CD, NPA, Judiciary, Legal Aid SA 39 CGE’s assessment of the government’s implementation of the NSP on GBVF between 2020 and 2022 2023 The second key activity focuses on clearing the backlog of cases related to GBV and has two indicators: (i) Number of GBVF cases cleared, and (ii) Case management system upgraded.
Available data41 indicated that 79 109 cases were backlogged and over 35 calendar days as of 21 April 2021.

There has been moderate progress in reducing the number of backlogged cases as per the requirement of the indicator in the last two financial years.

However, it should be noted that the turnaround time is four years for the full process to unfold.

In terms of the second indicator, the CGE could not find any report on the case management system upgrade.
Key interventions Key activities Indicators Target Strengthen capacity within the CJS to address impunity and Facilitate justice for GBV survivors.

Development of the phase 3 to 6 of the Femicide Watch.

Country-wide Femicide watch system in place.


Annually April 2020 to March 2024 Accountability Lead department Lead: DOJ&CD Support: SAPS, IJS, NPA The third key activity focuses on developing Phases 3 to 6 of the Femicide Watch Initiative and has one indicator that states, “Country-wide Femicide Watch Initiative system to be put in place”.

The Femicide Watch Initiative refers to the national repository for femicide cases resulting from GBV.
Information obtained with regard to this indicator shows that the DOJ&CD had planned and finalised Phase 3 of the Femicide Watch Initiative dashboard to include nine additional metrics to facilitate quick data analysis and the collection of more disaggregated data for more informed case profiling.

In other words, the processes of developing the Femicide Watch Initiative system were underway.
Key interventions Key activities Indicators Target Annually April 2020 to March 2024 Strengthen capacity within the CJS to address impunity and Facilitate justice for GBV survivors.
Number of certificates issued to persons providing services to children and mentally disabled persons Fast-track the vetting process of persons providing services directly to children and mentally disabled persons in terms of the National Register for Sex Offenders Accountability Lead department Lead: DOJ&CD Support: SAPS, IJS, Employment sector, DOH The last key activity is focused on fast-tracking the vetting process of persons providing services directly to children and mentally disabled persons in terms of the National Register for Sex Offenders.
One indicator is the “number of certificates issued to persons providing services to children and mentally disabled persons”.

The DOJ&CD National Registrar for Sex Offenders continues to be the tool used to vet government officials working at service points that have direct access to children and persons with disabilities.

Vetting was conducted on over 1 834 individuals in 2020/2021, and certificates were issued within ten days.
41 Overview of National Strategic Plan on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide Roll-Out.

2021.

Pg 39.

40 Commission for Gender Equality Targets were family advocates, clerks of children’s courts, court preparation officers, SAPS FCS, and NPA prosecutors.42 Vetting at this point appeared confined to criminal justice departments, as opposed to all sectors that provide services to children and mentally disabled persons.
Accountability Lead Department Lead: DOJ&CD Support: Parliament, national, provincial & local government, CSOs Key Intervention Key Activities Indicators Target Chapter 6 of Criminal Law amended Annually April 2020 to March 2024 Amend legislation related to GBVF areas, build onto legislative reforms initiated under the Emergency Response Action Plan Amendment of Chapter 6 of the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences and Related Matters) Amendment Act, 2007, dealing with the National Register for Sex Offenders (NRSO) to extend protection to all victims of sexual offences, irrespective of age and mental status The last key intervention focuses on the amendment of legislation related to GBVF areas to build on legislative reforms initiated under the Emergency Response Action Plan.
The key intervention had 14 key activities.

The first key activity is the amendment of Chapter 6 of the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences and Related Matters) Amendment Act, 2007, dealing with the NRSO to extend protection to all victims of sexual offences, irrespective of age and mental status.

This key activity has one indicator: Chapter 6 of the Criminal Law be amended with an annual roll-out from April 2020 to March 2024.
According to the NSP43 Year 1 roll-out report, the Bill was in Parliament in 2020/2021.

The Bill proposed inter alia, to expand the scope of the NRSO to include the particulars of sex offenders.

According to the DOJ&CD,44 on 28 January 2022 the Bill was signed into law to strengthen South Africa’s response to GBVF by further protecting GBV survivors and making it harder for perpetrators to escape justice.
The Bill covered protection for all victims of sexual offences irrespective of their age and mental status as per the key activity.

42 Overview of National Strategic Plan on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide Roll-Out.

2021, p. 40.

43 Overview of National Strategic Plan on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide Roll-Out.

2021.

Pg 40.

44 Department of Justice and Constitutional Development.2022, https://www.justice.gov.za/docs/articles/20220201-New-GBV-Acts-Signed.
html Date accessed: 16/03/2022 41 CGE’s assessment of the government’s implementation of the NSP on GBVF between 2020 and 2022 2023 Key interventions Key activities Indicators Target Criminal Procedure Act amended.
Annually April 2020 to March 2024 Amend legislation related to GBVF areas, build onto legislative reforms initiated under the Emergency Response Action Plan Overhaul of the Criminal Procedure Act, 1977 to make it victim-centric, including the review of bail provisions Accountability lead department Lead: DOJ&CD Support: Parliament, National, Provincial & Local government, CSOs The second key activity focuses on overhauling the Criminal Procedure Act of 1977 to make it victim-centric, including reviewing bail provisions.
The indicator focused on the Criminal Procedure Act amendment and annual roll out from April 2020 to March 2024.

Data in line with this indicator shows that in 2020/2021, the Bill on the proposed amendments was in Parliament.45 The Bill provides stricter bail and sentencing provisions as part of the initiative to strengthen the legislative framework in the fight against GBVF.
It further proposed amendments to the Magistrates Courts Act of 1977 and the Criminal Law (Minimum Sentences) Amendment Act of 1997 to fully address inadequacies in those laws that deal with GBVF-related offences and to afford protection to victims.

The DOJ&CD has noted the signing of the Bill into law on 22 January 2022.
The amendment ascended through the Criminal and Related Matters Amendment Act of 2021 (Act 12 of 2021), which included the amendment of the Criminal Procedure Act of 1977 to regulate the granting and cancellation of bail further; the giving of evidence by means of closed circuit television or similar electronic media; the giving of evidence by a witness with physical, psychological or mental disability; the appointment, oath and competency of intermediaries; and the right of a complainant in a domestic-related offence to participate in parole proceedings.46 Key interventions Key indicators Indicators Targets Labour Relations Act amended.
Annually - April 2022 to March 2024 Amend legislation related to GBVF areas, build onto legislative reforms initiated under the Emergency Response Action Plan.

Amendment of the Labour Relations Act to provide a provision on the vetting of all employees dealing with GBVF matters.
Accountability lead department Lead: DOL Support: Parliament, national, provincial & local government, CSOs The third key activity is on the amendment of the Labour Relations Act to provide a provision for vetting all employees dealing with GBVF matters.

The indicator is the Labour Relations Act amendment and annual roll out from April 2022 to March 2024, led by the DOL and supported by Parliament, national, provincial, and local government, and CSOs.
The Bill was at the time of completing this report in Parliament for finalisation.

45 Overview of National Strategic Plan on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide Roll-Out.

2021, p. 41.

46 Department of Justice and Constitutional Development.2022, https://www.justice.gov.za/docs/articles/20220201-New-GBV-Acts-Signed.
html, Date accessed: 16/03/2022 42 Commission for Gender Equality Key interventions Key activities Indicators Target Amendment of Customary Marriages Act amended Annually April 2020 to March 2024 Amend legislation related to GBVF areas, build onto legislative reforms initiated under the Emergency Response Action Plan Amendment of Customary Marriages Act – registration of marriages, recognition of cross-national marriages; same sex marriages - coordination with DHA.
Accountability Lead department Lead: DHA, DOJ&CD Support: Parliament, National, Provincial & Local government, CSO The fourth key activity focuses on the amendment of the Customary Marriages Act – registration of marriages, recognition of cross-national marriages, and same-sex marriages – in coordination with DHA.

The indicator is the Marriage Act Amendment, led by the DHA and DOJ&CD and supported by Parliament, national, provincial and local government, and CSOs.
The NSP47 has prescribed an annual roll-out period from April 2020 to March 2024.

The Bill in this regard has already become law.

Key interventions Key activities Indicators Target Finalisation of Traditional Courts Bill.

Traditional Courts Bill amended.

Annually March 2021 to March 2024 Amend legislation related to GBVF areas, build onto legislative reforms initiated under the Emergency Response Action Plan.
Accountability Lead department Lead: DOJ&CD Support: Parliament, national, provincial & local government, CSOs, SALRC The fifth key activity focuses on the finalisation of Traditional Courts Bill.

The indicator is the “Traditional Courts Bill amended” is for annual roll out from March 2021 to March 2024.

Information obtained on this indicator suggests that the Traditional Courts Bill was at the time of writing this report with Parliament for finalisation.
Key interventions Key activities Indicators Target Finalisation of legislative process to decriminalise sex work – fast tracking and promulgation.

Legislation on Decriminalisation of sex work promulgated.

Annually March 2021 to March 2024 Amend legislation related to GBVF areas, build onto legislative reforms initiated under the Emergency Response Action Plan.
Accountability lead department Lead: DOJ&CD Support: Parliament, National, Provincial & Local government, CSOs 47 Reflective Report on the Implementation of the South African National Strategic Plan on GBVF May 2020 to September 2022, p. 34.
43 CGE’s assessment of the government’s implementation of the NSP on GBVF between 2020 and 2022 2023 The sixth key activity focuses on finalising the legislative process to decriminalise sex work – fast tracking and promulgation with the indicator “legislation on decriminalisation of sex work promulgation”.

Processes to finalise legislation to decriminalise sex work were still unfolding at the end of the period under review.

The target deadline for the achievement of this indicator is 2024.
Key interventions Key activities Indicators Target Cyber Crime Bill amended.

Annually March 2021 to March 2024 Inclusion of cyber violence in the Cyber Crimes Bill to address online sexual violence.

Amend legislation related to GBVF areas, build onto legislative reforms initiated under the Emergency Response Action Plan.
Accountability Lead department Lead: DOJ&CD Support: Parliament, National, Provincial & Local government, CSO The seventh key activity focuses on the inclusion of cyber violence in the Cybercrimes Bill to address online sexual violence.

It has one indicator, which is “Cybercrime Bill amended” for annual roll out from March 2021 to March 2024.

Progress achieved on this indicator is that the Bill was in Parliament when writing this report.
Key interventions Key activities Indicators Target Finalisation of the Prevention and Combating of Hate Crimes and Hate Speech Bill.

Prevention and Combating of Hate Crimes and Hate Speech Bill.

Annually March 2021 to March 2024 Amend legislation related to GBVF areas, build onto legislative reforms initiated under the Emergency Response Action Plan.
Accountability Lead department Lead: DOJ&CD Support: Parliament, national, provincial & local government, CSOs The eighth key activity focuses on finalising the Prevention and Combating of Hate Crimes and Hate Speech Bill.

The indicator is the “Prevention and Combating of Hate Speech Bill finalisation”.

The Bill had reached the Parliament phase when this report was written.

Key interventions Key activities Indicators Target Amendment of the Older Persons Act Older Persons Act amended.
Annually April 2020 to March 2024 Amend legislation related to GBVF areas, build onto legislative reforms initiated under the Emergency Response Action Plan.

44 Accountability Lead department Lead: DSD Support: DOJ&CD, Parliament, national, provincial & local government, CSOs Commission for Gender Equality The ninth key activity focuses on the amendment of the Older Persons Act.

However, performance information was not available.
Therefore, it was unclear what the status update was regarding the implementation of the key activity.

Key interventions Key activities Indicators Target Amendment of the Film and Publications Act Film & Publications Act amended.
Annually April 2020 to March 2024 Amend legislation related to GBVF areas, build onto legislative reforms initiated under the Emergency Response Action Plan Accountability lead department Lead: DCDT Support: FPB, Parliament, national, provincial & local government, CSOs Data was not available regarding the tenth key activity, which focuses on the amendment of the Film and Publications Act.

Key interventions Key activities Indicators Target Finalisation of the Regulations for Sexual offences Courts.
Regulations for Sexual offences Courts are finalised.

Annually April 2020 to March 2024 Amend legislation related to GBVF areas, build onto legislative reforms initiated under the Emergency Response Action Plan Accountability lead department Lead: DOJ&CD Support: national, provincial & local government, CSOs The eleventh key activity focuses on finalising regulations for Sexual Offences Courts.

The indicator is “regulations for Sexual Offences Courts finalised”.
According to the NSP48 Year 1 roll-out report 2020 to 2021, in February 2020, the Minister of Justice and Correctional Services approved regulations relating to Sexual Offences Courts.

The approval delineates the minimum standards for the catalogue designated as Sexual Offences Courts in terms of Section 55A of the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences and Related Matters).

Key interventions Key activities Indicators Target Finalise Amendment of the Domestic Violence Act 1998.
Legislative framework on Domestic Partnership finalised.

Annually April 2020 to March 2024 Amend legislation related to GBVF areas, build onto legislative reforms initiated under the Emergency Response Action Plan.

48 Overview of NSP on GBVF Roll-Out, Year 1.

1 May 2020 to 30 April 2021, p. 42.


Accountability Lead department Lead: DOJ&CD Support: FPB, national, provincial & local government, CSOs 45 CGE’s assessment of the government’s implementation of the NSP on GBVF between 2020 and 2022 2023 The twelfth key activity focuses on finalising the amendment of the Domestic Violence Act of 1998.

The activity has one indicator, which is the “legislative framework on domestic partnership finalised”.
The process is led by the DOJ&CD and supported by the national, provincial and local governments, and CSOs for the annual roll out from April 2020 to March 2024.

The Bill seeks to amend the provisions of the Domestic Violence Act of 1998 to address further practical challenges, gaps, and anomalies that render women and children helpless to the violence they experience.

The Bill further proposes the introduction of online applications for domestic violence, amongst others.
The DOJ&CD noted the signing of the Bill into law on 22 January 2022.

Key interventions Key activities Indicators Target Review of the Charter for Victims of Crimes Charter for Victims of Crime amended.

Annually April 2020 to March 2024 Amend legislation related to GBVF areasbuild onto legislative reforms initiated under the Emergency Response Action Plan.
Accountability Lead department Lead: DOJ&CD Support: Parliament, national, provincial & local government, CSOs The thirteenth key activity focuses on the review of the Charter for Victims of Crimes.

The key activity was assigned one indicator which is the “Charter for Victims of Crime amended”.
The available information showed that progress achieved by the end of the 2021/2022 financial year, the second and last year of this review, was that the NPA had developed the draft amendment of the Service Charter for Victims Crimes.49 Key interventions Key activities Indicators Target Finalise the development of the Victim Support Services Bill.

Promulgation of the Victim Support Services Act.


Annually April 2020 to March 2024 Amend legislation related to GBVF areas, build onto legislative reforms initiated under the Emergency Response Action Plan.

Accountability Lead department Lead: DSD Support: Parliament, national, provincial & local government, CSOs The last key activity focuses on finalising the development of the Victim Support Services Bill.
The activity has one performance indicator, which is the promulgation of the Victim Support Services Act.

Progress is annual roll out from April 2020 to March 2024.

The Minister of Social Development submitted the Victim Support System (VSS) Bill for public comment in 2020.

More details on this indicator will be discussed under Pillar 4 of this report, given the cross-cutting nature of the indicator.50 49 Ibid.
50 Parliamentary Monitoring Group, Victim Support Services (VSS) Bill, Victim Support Services (VSS) Bill | PMG.

2020.
Date accessed: 08/02/2023 46 Commission for Gender Equality 6.4 PILLAR 4: RESPONSE, CARE SUPPORT AND HEALING This pillar intends to “ensure that every survivor of gender-based violence has access to appropriate and sensitive response, care, and support that facilitates immediate containment, medium to long term healing, and agency towards reclaiming their bodies, mental and physical health, well-being, and lives”.51 “The overall focus is two- fold: (i) Strengthening and overhauling services and systems; improving relationships between stakeholders whilst (ii) Building and bolstering resilience through harnessing the capacity of institutions, households, and communities to play important roles in responding to and supporting survivors”.52 The indicators under this pillar call for the adoption of a White Paper on Social Welfare Services, an agreement to be put in place for DOH to manage TCCs, for Community Rapid Response Teams to be established and many other activities that are projected to advance response, care support, and healing.
Key interventions Key activities Indicators Target Accountability Lead department Annually - April 2020- March 2024 Lead: DSD Support: DOJ&CD Finalisation of legal framework for Response Care & Support Victim Empowerment Bill and White Paper on Social Welfare Services Victim Empowerment Services Support Bill passed.
White Paper on Social Welfare Services adopted Strengthen existing response, care and support services by the state and civil society in ways that are victim centred, and survivor focused and trauma informed to facilitate recovery and healing The key intervention throughout Pillar 4 is focused on strengthening existing response, care, and support services by the state and civil society in victim-centred, survivor-focused, and trauma-informed ways to facilitate recovery and healing.53 The first key activity, “finalisation of legal framework for response care and support victim empowerment Bill and white paper on social welfare services” has two indicators: (i) Victim Empowerment Services Support Bill passed and (ii) White Paper on Social Welfare Services adopted.
The lead department is the DSD, supported by the DOJ&CD.

The NSP54 document describes the roll-out for the indicators as “annually – April 2020 to March 2024”.
The NSP on GBV Year 1 roll-out report 2020 to 2021 explains that “the DSD gazetted the Victim Support Services Bill (VSS) Bill aimed at fighting the scourge of GBVF by putting the interest of the victim at the centre of the justice system”.55 The Victim Support Services Bill was made available for public comments from August to October 2020.56 The Bill garnered 300 public comments processed by the DSD national and provincial legal team for consideration.57 The 2021/2022 Annual Performance Plan of the DSD had placed the tabling of the Victim Support Services Bill before Cabinet for approval in the Fourth Quarter of 2021/2022 and its implementation in 2023/2024.58 51 Overview of NSP on GBVF Roll-Out, Year 1.
1 May 2020 to 30 April 2021, p. 42.

52 Ibid.

53 National Strategic Plan on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide.

2020, p. 76.

54 National Strategic Plan on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide.

2020, p. 76.

55 Ibid.

56 Ibid.

57 Ibid.

58 Revised DSD Annual Performance Plan, 2021/2022, p. 47.
47 CGE’s assessment of the government’s implementation of the NSP on GBVF between 2020 and 2022 2023 The Reflective Report on the Implementation of the South African National Strategic Plan on GBVF May 2020 to September 202259 confirms that Cabinet approved the Victim Support Services Bill in March 2022 but that Parliament had not yet approved it.

These developments signal that significant steps have been taken towards passing the Bill.
In terms of the second indicator, which states “White Paper on Social Welfare Services adopted”, the 2020/202160 and 2021/202261 DSD Annual Performance Plans assigned the finalisation of the White Paper to the next five years, which, when counted from 2020/2021, coincides with the five-year NSP target allocation for the achievement of the indicator.62 The NSP on GBV Year 1 roll-out report 2020 to 2021 explains that the draft White Paper was ready for presentation to Cabinet by 2021.
Key interventions Key activities Indicators Target Development of a minimum core package of services and related costing for GBVF survivors Minimum core services package and costing in place for GBVF survivors.
Annually April 2020 to March 2024 Strengthen existing response, care and support services by the state and civil society in ways that are victim centred, and survivor focused and trauma informed to facilitate recovery and healing Accountability lead department Lead: DSD Support: DPME, DOH, NT, NCGBVF The second key activity under this pillar speaks to the “development of a minimum core package of services and related costing for GBVF survivors”, and the indicator related to it is “minimum core services package and costing in place for GBVF survivors”.
The due date in this regard is by 2024, with the lead department being the DSD supported by the DPME, DOH, NT, and the currently non-existent NCGBVF.

Based on data obtained63 for this assessment, it could be determined that the defining and costing of a comprehensive package of services for survivors of GBV had been completed, with the final report in this regard approved by the now-disbanded Interim Steering Committee on 28 August 2020”.
Based on this information, it appears that the target of 2022 has been accomplished.

59 Reflective Report on the Implementation of the South African National Strategic Plan on GBVF May 2020 to September 2022, p. 38.

60 DSD Annual Performance Plan, 2020/2021, p. 10.

61 Revised DSD Annual Performance Plan, 2021/2022, p. 16.

62 Ibid.

63 Overview of NSP on GBVF Roll-Out, Year 1.

1 May 2020 to 30 April 2021, p. 44.
48 Commission for Gender Equality Key interventions Key activities Indicators Target Standardisation approach to sheltering adopted for funding and services Strengthen existing response, care and support services by the state and civil society in ways that are victim centred, and survivor focused and trauma informed to facilitate recovery and healing Standardised shelter framework in place Funding model for NGOs providing services to victims of crime and GBV M&E framework for victim-friendly, survivor-focused service delivery Annually April 2020 to March 2024 Accountability Lead department Lead: DSD Support: NT, NCGBVF Annually April 2020 to March 2024 Lead: DSD Support: NT, NCGBVF Annually April 2020 to March 2024 Lead: DSD Support: NT, NCGBVF The next key activity is the “standardisation approach to sheltering adopted for funding and services”.
The first indicator for this key activity is a “standardised shelter framework in place”.

Although the indicator exists in the NSP document, it seems to have been changed and reworded to “draft intersectional policy on sheltering services developed by March 2021” in the NSP on GBV Year 1 roll-out report 2020 to 2021.64 In support of this, the DSD 2020/2021 annual report65 also refers to the inter-sectoral policy on sheltering services.
Nonetheless, it could be confirmed through data collected from this assessment66 that the inter-sectoral shelter policy was in place.

This means that this rephrased indicator has been achieved.

In relation to the second indicator related to this key activity, which is a “funding model for NGOs providing services to victims of crime and GBV”, the NSP on GBV Year 1 roll-out report 2020 to 202167 notes that the DSD funding policy was finalised by February 2020 which pre-dates the NSP document.
The NSP was adopted in April 2020 for implementation.

“An M&E framework for victim-friendly, survivor-focused service delivery” is the third and last indicator under this key activity.

The CGE could not obtain data to determine performance on this indicator.

Key interventions Key activities Indicators Target Agreement in place for DOH to manage TCCs.

Annually April 2020 to March 2024 Resourcing of the TCCs to adequately provide integrated services at health care facilities, managed by the NPA and DOH.
Strengthen existing response, care and support services by the state and civil society in ways that are victim centred, and survivor focused and trauma informed to facilitate recovery and healing Accountability Lead department Lead: NPA Support: DOH, SAPS, NT, NCGBVF 64 Overview of NSP on GBVF Roll-Out, Year 1.

1 May 2020 to 30 April 2021, p. 44.

65 DSD Annual Report, 2020/2021, p. 85.


66 Reflective Report on the Implementation of the South African National Strategic Plan on GBVF May 2020 to September 2022, p. 38.

67 Overview of NSP on GBVF Roll-Out, Year 1.

1 May 2020 to 30 April 2021, p. 46.

49 CGE’s assessment of the government’s implementation of the NSP on GBVF between 2020 and 2022 2023 The next key activity is “resourcing of the TCCs to adequately provide integrated services at health care facilities, managed by the NPA and DOH”.
The only indicator is “agreement in place for DOH to manage TCCs” for the annual roll out from April 2020 to March 2024, with the lead department being the NPA supported by the DOH, SAPS, NT, and the currently non-existent NCGBVF.
Through this review, the CGE learned that the agreement for the DOH to take over the responsibility of managing TCCs from the NPA could not be finalised.68 The reason cited for this was that this indicator was not achievable, with no other information provided to support the statement.

Therefore, it is unclear why the indicator that cannot be attained was crafted and placed in the NSP in the first place.
Key interventions Key activities Indicators Target Implement psychosocial support programme for all frontline workers in place and rolled out, including those working in CSOs.

Strengthen existing response, care, and support services by the state and civil society in ways that are victim centred, and survivor focused and trauma informed to facilitate recovery and healing.
Institutional mechanisms such as compulsory leave, task shifting and team building to provide a supportive institutional environment for service providers.

Mandatory debriefing and psychosocial support services captured in Victim Empowerment Support and Services Bill.

Implemented continuously and reported annually.


Accountability Lead department Lead: DSD Support: DOH, SAPS, DBE, DHET, CSOs Implemented continuously and reported annually Lead: DSD Support: DOH, SAPS, DBE, CSOs The next key activity, “implement psychosocial support programme for all frontline workers and rolled out, including those working in CSOs”, has two indicators.
Firstly, “institutional mechanisms such as compulsory leave, task shifting, and team building to provide a supportive institutional environment for service providers” must be implemented continuously and reported annually.
The information obtained by the CGE was insufficient to determine the progress achieved, as an existing report gave misaligned information regarding this indicator.69 The second indicator of this key activity is “mandatory debriefing and psychosocial support services captured in Victim Empowerment Support and Services Bill”.

This indicator has the same deadline and responsible departments as the previous one.
The VSS Bill70 does mention that psychosocial support services should be provided but is silent on whether these services should be mandatory or not.

68 Overview of NSP on GBVF Roll-Out, Year 1.

1 May 2020 to 30 April 2021, p. 44.

69 Reflective Report on the Implementation of the South African National Strategic Plan on GBVF May 2020 -September 2022, p. 40.

70 Victim Support Services Bill, 2019.


50 Commission for Gender Equality Key interventions Key activities Indicators Target Strengthen existing response, care and support services by the state and civil society in ways that are victim centred, and survivor Development of integrated service delivery model (drawing on existing good practice) that strengthens relationships and referrals across service providers Response, care and support delivery model in place Community Rapid Response Teams established.
Annually April 2020 to March 2024 Annually April 2020 to March 2024 Accountability Lead department Lead: NCGBVF Support: DWYPD, DSD, DOH, DOJ&CD Lead: NCGBVF Support: DWYPD, COGTA Another key activity, as seen above, is the “development of integrated service delivery model (drawing on existing good practice) that strengthens relationships and referrals across service providers”.
The first indicator is “response, care and support delivery model in place” and the NCGBVF should be leading the work to achieve this indicator, but is yet to be established.
The progress in this regard is reported as follows:71 • Models developed: (Khuseleka One Stop Centre and Thuthuzela Care Centre models) developed prior to NSP implementation • Civil society: Centre for the Study of Violence and Reconciliation operates an effective referral model across various service providers, which play a role in facilitating healing.
This model is transferable skill sets, and CSVR is playing a role in further expanding this model for greater application in the GBV sector • Research outcomes: Outcomes defining and costing a comprehensive package of services for survivors of GBV will be used to streamline further and refine these models • Implementation: Experiences implementing these multi-sectoral models will continue to be used to refine further and address emerging weaknesses.
Instead of establishing a new response, care, and support delivery model, plans were in place to leverage pre- existing mechanisms to deliver on this indicator.

The next indicator with the same responsible departments and timelines as the previous indicator is “community rapid response teams established”, which was achieved during the first two years of NSP implementation.72 71 Overview of NSP on GBVF Roll-Out, Year 1.

1 May 2020 to 30 April 2021, p. 44.


72 Reflective Report on the Implementation of the South African National Strategic Plan on GBVF May 2020 to September 2022, p. 40.
51 CGE’s assessment of the government’s implementation of the NSP on GBVF between 2020 and 2022 2023 Key interventions Key activities Indicators Target Accountability Lead department Strengthen existing response, care and support services by the state and civil society in ways that are victim centred, and survivor Strengthening of the local level coordination to address current fragmentation and build cooperative relationships of trust between government stakeholders, CSOs and communities in responding to GBVF MOU between respective service providers are in place.
CBOs, FBOs, activists are engaged in shaping local responses.
Integrated management information systems linking social development, health, education, and the criminal justice system in place and utilised Annually April 2020 to March 2024 Lead: NCGBVF Support: DSD Integrated Service Delivery model implemented by 2020 Lead: DSD, DOH Support: NCGBVF, National, Provincial, Municipalities, CSO The key activity, “strengthening of the local level coordination to address current fragmentation and build cooperative relationships of trust between government stakeholders, CSOs, and communities in responding to GBVF” has three indicators.
The first is “MOU between respective service providers is in place” annually from April to March 2024.

The responsibility of this falls under the auspices of the DSD and the not yet established NCGBVF as the lead.

Progress on this indicator was unavailable.

The second indicator, “CBOs, FBOs, activists are engaged in shaping local responses”, also with the same timelines and responsible departments, has no performance information.
The third indicator is “integrated management information systems linking social development, health, education, and the criminal justice system in place and utilised”.

The timeline for this indicator was 2020, even though a specific month was not indicated.

The responsibility for the indicator falls on the DSD and the DOH as lead departments, supported by the NCGBVF, municipalities, and CSOs.
Based on the information obtained from the DSD Annual Report73 and 2021/2022 APP,74 the integrated management information systems linking social development, health, education, and the criminal justice system is in place and is being utilised, meaning that the target was achieved.

73 DSD Annual Report, 2020/2021, p. 39.

74 DSD Annual Report, 2021/2022, p. 37.
52 Commission for Gender Equality Key interventions Key activities Indicators Target Strengthen existing response, care and support services by the state and civil society in ways that are victim centred, and survivor Establishment of local level rapid response teams in every municipality with clear protocols for weekday, weekend, after hours’ services (to consider danger and rural allowance), and protocols for child protection (all departments) to amplify the response to the needs of victims Improved multi- sectoral locally rooted responses/ programmes to GBVF with expanded, standardised sheltering services and meets the needs of LGBTQIA+ persons and persons with disabilities.
Municipal plans on care and support including a service map and referral parts (responding to safety plan) for GBV support services, substance abuse, and related mental health care GBV Programmes (including response, care, support & prevention) with social workers are institutionalised across the levels of schooling and higher education to provide caring, safe environments.
Workplaces are held accountable for providing psychosocial support for survivors within the workplace as integral to their Employee Wellness Programmes Accountability Lead department Lead: DSD, DOH Support: NCGBVF, National, Provincial, Municipalities, CSO Integrated Service Delivery model implemented annually from April 2020 to March 2024 Annually April 2020 to March 2024 Lead: COGTA Support: Municipalities Annually April 2020 to March 2024 Lead: DSD, DOH Support: NCGBVF, National, Provincial, Municipalities, CSO Annually April 2020 to March 2024 Lead: DPSA Support: national, provincial and local government, DEL, BUSA 53 CGE’s assessment of the government’s implementation of the NSP on GBVF between 2020 and 2022 2023 The last key activity in Pillar 4 speaks to the “establishment of local level rapid response teams in every municipality with clear protocols for weekday, weekend, after hours services (to consider the danger and rural allowance), and protocols for child protection (all departments) to amplify the response to the needs of victims”.
The first indicator under this key activity calls for “improved multi-sectoral locally rooted responses and programmes to GBVF with expanded, standardised sheltering services that meet the needs of LGBTQIA+ persons and persons with disabilities” for annual roll out from April 2020 to March 2024.

The lead departments are the DSD and DOH, supported by municipalities and CSOs.

Information regarding this indicator was not available, which makes it difficult to determine whether progress is achieved.
The second indicator is “municipal plans on care and support including a service map and referral parts (responding to safety plan) for GBV support services, substance abuse, and related mental health care”.

The timeline is the same as the previous indicator, and the lead department is COGTA supported by municipalities.
Performance information regarding this indicator shows that no progress has been made towards the attainment of the target.75 Data regarding the indicator “GBV programmes (including response, care, support, and prevention) with social workers are institutionalised across the levels of schooling and higher education to provide caring, safe environments” was also not available to inform the CGE’s determination on whether progress was made.
Progress was noted on the implementation of the last indicator, which states, “workplaces are held accountable for providing psychosocial support for survivors within the workplace, as integral to their Employee Wellness Programmes”.
The progress reported for this indicator is that 100% of public service departments have wellness management policies that address psychosocial wellness issues and the availability of counselling services in the workplace.76 6.5 PILLAR 5: ECONOMIC POWER The purpose of this pillar is to address the challenge of survivors of GBVF, particularly women possessing little economic and social power.77 Having no opportunities or access to economic power makes it difficult for survivors to leave abusive relationships, especially when the abuser is also the main income provider.
Pillar 5 calls for a demonstrated commitment through legislation, interventions, strategies, and practices by public and private stakeholders to eliminate the impact of economic drivers of GBVF.78 Key intervention Key activities Indicators Target Accountability Lead department Accelerate initiatives to address women’s unequal economic and social position Number of programmes implemented for equitable job creation Develop, implement, support and mentor programmes for equitable job creation, representation, and ownership by women Annually April 2020 to March 2024 Lead: DEL Support: DPWI 75 Reflective Report on the Implementation of the South African National Strategic Plan on GBVF May 2020 to September 2022, p. 39.
76 Overview of NSP on GBVF Roll-Out, Year 1.

1 May 2020 to 30 April 2021, p. 47.

77 National Strategic Plan on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide.

2020, p. 104.

78 National Strategic Plan on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide.

2020, p. 105.

54 Commission for Gender Equality There are three key interventions under Pillar 5.
The first key intervention is focused on accelerating initiatives to address women’s unequal economic and social positioning in society.79 The first key activity is “develop, implement, support, and mentor programmes for equitable job creation, representation, and ownership by women”.

The lead department is the DEL, supported by the DWPI.

The NSP80 document indicates the roll out for the indicator is “annually – April 2020 to March 2024”.
Based on the content shared by DEL in their 2021/2022 Annual Report,81 in accordance with their responsibilities as set out on the NSP, the department committed to playing a meaningful role in workplaces for the support and care of survivors of GBVF.
Although the DEL acknowledges its responsibilities to the NSP regarding GBVF, the annual report 82 draws attention to youth job creation and not necessarily to accelerate the improvement of women’s social and economic positioning in particular through job creation.
Key intervention Key activities Indicators Target Accelerate initiatives to address women’s unequal economic and social position Establish Public private partnerships to facilitate economic opportunities for women leaving abusive relationships Number of public private partnerships in place to facilitate economic opportunities Annual targets established disaggregated by province and economic sector Accountability Lead department Lead: DSD Support: DTI, COGTA, NCGBVF The second key activity under this intervention is establishing public-private partnerships to facilitate economic opportunities for women leaving abusive relationships.
The indicator with the key activity states, “number of public-private partnerships in place to facilitate economic opportunities”.

The leading department is DSD and is supported by DTI, COGTA, and NCGBVF.

The information on partnerships mentioned in data in the DTI annual report is misaligned with the indicator.

In terms of the DSD, data uncovered was mainly on shelters and the need to equip survivors with skills to secure livelihood and income.
Nonetheless, COGTA has reported that processes are underway to facilitate collaboration efforts between the public and private sectors in supporting survivors of GBVF.83 Details regarding the nature of this partnership and the progress of processes could not be determined.
Key intervention Key activities Indicators Target Accountability Lead department Accelerate initiatives to address women’s unequal economic and social position Reconfigure Land and Agrarian Reform funding to achieve Land and Agrarian reforms transformation deliverables Land and agrarian fund established by March 2022 Annually April 2020 to March 2024 Lead: DALRRD Support: NT 79 National Strategic Plan on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide.

2020, p. 79.
2020, p. 79.

80 National Strategic Plan on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide.

2020, p. 79.

81 Department of Labour Annual Report.

2021/2022, p. 14.

82 Department of Labour Annual Report.

2021/2022, p. 64.

83 Bruce, D. (2015).

Preventing crime and violence through work and wages.

SA Crime Quarterly, 52, 25–37.

https://doi-org.ufs.idm.oclc.
org/10.4314/sacq.v52i1.3 55 CGE’s assessment of the government’s implementation of the NSP on GBVF between 2020 and 2022 2023 Data obtained with regard to the key activity “reconfigure land and agrarian reform funding to achieve land and agrarian reforms transformation deliverables” and its related indicator “land and agrarian fund established by March 2022” shows that the two entities assigned the task of ensuring that a land and agrarian fund has never reported on the implementation of the indicator.
No mention of the establishment of a land and agrarian fund was contained in any published DALRRD reports.
Therefore, it is unclear how far implementation is.84 Key intervention Key activities Indicators Target Accountability Lead department Annually April 2020 to March 2024 Lead: DSD, DHSWS Support: NCGBVF Accelerate initiatives to address women’s unequal economic and social position Put Shelters and interim housing in place Number of survivors being able to access shelters/ province Interim housing arrangements in place based on updated policy directives per province by March 2024 Another key activity under this intervention is aimed at putting shelters and interim housing in place.
The two indicators that go with the key activity state, “number of survivors being able to access shelters/province” and “interim housing arrangements in place based on updated policy directives per province by March 2024”.
The lead departments are DSD and DHSWS, which the yet-to-be-established NCGBVF supports.85 The DHSWS and the DSD have stipulated that interventions have been implemented to provide GBV survivors shelter and interim housing.86 The interim shelter or homes for GBV survivors are intended for their placement and safeguarding.
Complementing this, DHSWS points out that strategies have been implemented to support and sponsor child- headed homes and vulnerable families.87 The presentation shared with the CGE researchers by the DHSWS indicates the initiation of the activity to prioritise GBV survivors in accessing homes and finding places of refuge so that secondary abuse may not befall the survivors.
DSD denote spearheading the promulgation of the inter-sectoral shelter policy, which they state will reduce social ills as it will ensure that victims of crime and violence receive suitable sheltering services to meet their needs.

The policy will look into different models required to cater for various victims, such as exposing women to economic activities in order for them to exit shelters with skills to enter the job market or start businesses.
The policy on sheltering services will remove victims from an environment of abuse to an environment where they can positively transform their lives for the better, not just for themselves but their dependents (children), through empowerment programmes offered.88 84 National Strategic Plan on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide.

2020, p. 77.

85 National Strategic Plan on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide.

2020, p. 77.

86 Leburu-Masigo, G. E., Maforah, N. F., & Mohlatlole, N. E. (2019).
Impact of Victim Empowerment Programme on the Lives If Victims of Gender-Based Violence: Social Work Services.

Gender & Behaviour, 17(3), 13439–13454.

87 Overview of National Strategic Plan on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide Roll-Out Year1.

1 May 2020 to 30 April 2021.

88 Department of Social Development Annual Performance Plan Year 2022/23, p. 65.
56 Commission for Gender Equality Accountability Lead department Lead: DTI Support: DSBD, DHSWS, NCGBVF Key intervention Key activities Indicators Target Accelerate initiatives to address women’s unequal economic and social position Establish Survivor focused cooperatives/ groups to build entrepreneurship, healing and economic resilience Annually April 2020 to March 2024 Annually April 2020 to March 2024 Number of multi-sectoral interventions in place for shelter and interim housing for survivors.
Public private partnerships established to facilitate economic opportunities for women leaving shelters.

The next key activity under this intervention is to “establish survivor-focused cooperatives or groups to build entrepreneurship, healing, and economic resilience”.
The two indicators that go with the key activity state, “number of multi-sectoral interventions in place for shelter and interim housing for survivors” and “public- private partnerships established to facilitate economic opportunities for women leaving shelters”.

The leading department is DTI and is supported by DHSWS and NCGBVF.
Apart from the information relating to the DSD inter-sectoral shelter policy that considers survivors’ economic needs and aims to address the needs, as well as sheltering and housing initiatives already discussed, no other data was available in this regard.

Key intervention Key activities Indicators Target Accelerate initiatives to address women’s unequal economic and social position Put policy mechanisms in place to address range of gender related inequalities in the economy.
Range of policy interventions in place to address barriers women face to participation in strategic sections of the economy Annually April 2020 to March 2024 Accountability Lead department Lead: DTI Support: DSBD, DWYPD, Public and Private Sector The key activity, “put policy mechanisms in place to address a range of gender-related inequalities in the economy”, has one indicator which states, “range of policy interventions in place to address barriers women face to participation in strategic sections of the economy”.
The lead department is the DTI, supported by the DSBD, DWYPD, and the public and private sectors.

Data obtained with regard to this indicator was misaligned with the indicator requirement.

Progress could thus not be determined.

Information from the DWYPD explained that a platform was created to engage women’s businesses.

The need was identified to extend trade opportunities to the provinces to accommodate businesses with perishable products.
Opportunities were created for 400 women-owned businesses to exhibit their products and services at the Trade EXPO.

Women were also mobilised to participate as buyers.

Furthermore, the Women’s Economic Assembly (WECONA) has partnered with the department to support women’s businesses at the Trade EXPO.89 89 Update on GBVF-related matters: DWYPD (with Minister), SAPS & DoJ&CD input Multi-Party Women’s Caucus 24 November 2022.
Accessed from: https://pmg.org.za/committee-meeting/36121/ 57 CGE’s assessment of the government’s implementation of the NSP on GBVF between 2020 and 2022 2023 While these interventions and activities appear important and necessary, they do not respond to the indicator requirement for a range of policy interventions to address barriers women face when participating in strategic sections of the economy.
Key intervention Key activities Indicators Target Accelerate initiatives to address women’s unequal economic and social position Develop systems and accountability measures for child maintenance defaulting Mechanisms in place to prevent defaulting of child maintenance by March 2021 Annually April 2020 to March 2024 Accountability lead department Lead: DOJ&CD Support: DSD, NCGBVF In terms of the key last activity under the key intervention, “accelerate initiatives to address women’s unequal economic and social position”, the key activity, “develop systems and accountability measures for child maintenance defaulting”, has a single indicator which requires “mechanisms in place to prevent defaulting of child maintenance by March 2021”.
As much as the CGE learned that capacity had been expanded for the Maintenance Programme and Family Law Directorate, that the DOJ&CD was utilising an online tracing system for maintenance investigators,90 that officials had undergone training, and that a maintenance defaulter register had been established, it was not clarified how these mechanisms prevented the defaulting of child maintenance.
Nonetheless, based on reports available, these measures appeared to address issues of maintenance defaulting more broadly, but their efficiency level was not reported.
91 Key intervention Key activities Indicators Target Make workplaces safe and violent free for all women Workplace interventions for GBV support developed and rolled out in public and private sector Number of workplaces with GBV wellness interventions in place % increase annually Develop sexual harassment policies in workplaces across the public and private sectors Proportion of workplaces with enforceable sexual harassment policies in place disaggregated for public and private Annually April 2020 to March 2024 Annual – proportional increase Accountability Lead department Lead Department: DEL and DPSA Support Departments: All national and provincial departments, BUSA, Labour Movement 90 National Strategic Plan on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide.
2020, pp.

79-80.

91 Reflective Report on The Implementation of the South African National Strategic Plan on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide May 2020 – September 2022, p. 37.

58 Commission for Gender Equality There are three key interventions in Pillar 5.

The second key intervention is focused on making workplaces safe and violence-free for all women.92 This intervention has two key activities.
The first one is “workplace interventions for GBV support developed and rolled out in public and private sector”, and the indicator in line with the stated activity is “number of workplaces with GBV wellness interventions in place, percentage increase annually”.

It is difficult to determine progress achieved with this indicator, and available information does not align with the requirements of the indicator.
The second indicator states, “develop sexual harassment policies in workplaces across the public and private sectors”.

It was not clear whether progress has been achieved towards attaining this indicator.

Key interventions Key activities Indicators Target % of time spent on unpaid domestic and care work, by sex.
Annually April 2020 to March 2024 Strategic policy interventions by the state, private sector and other key sectors rolled out towards eliminating the impact of the economic drivers of GBV on all women Raise awareness of women’s unpaid labour and initiate interventions to reshape the structure of work in ways that value productive and reproductive labour.
Accountability Lead department Lead: DWYPD Support: STATS SA, DEL, NCGBVF In terms of the key activity “raise awareness of women’s unpaid labour and initiate interventions to reshape the structure of work in ways that value productive and reproductive labour”, the indicator states, “percentage of time spent on unpaid domestic and care work, by sex”.93 The leading department is DWYPD, supported by Statistics SA, DEL, and NCGBVF.
According to the NSP document, the roll-out period is “annually – April 2020 to March 2024”.

Based on the information submitted to CGE, the DWYPD has been driving preferential procurement while continuously raising awareness of women’s unpaid labour.
The document submitted by the department further indicated that to determine time spent by women on unpaid care work, a survey needed to be carried out, which at the time had no budget allocation by the department.94 Key intervention Key activities Indicators Target Monitoring of GRPBMEA roll out, specifically in the economic cluster Degree to which GBV targets are integrated into departmental and municipal plans Annually April 2020 to March 2024 Strategic policy interventions by the state, private sector, and other key sectors rolled out towards eliminating the impact of the economic drivers of GBV on all women Accountability Lead department Lead: DWYPD Support: DPME, Parliamentary Oversight, CGE, civil society 92 National Strategic Plan on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide.
2020, p. 79.

93 National Strategic Plan on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide.

2020, p. 78.

94 Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities Responses: Set of NSP targets.

Retrieved on: 10 February 2023, p. 7.


59 CGE’s assessment of the government’s implementation of the NSP on GBVF between 2020 and 2022 2023 In terms of the indicator, which speaks to the degree to which GBV targets are integrated into departmental and municipal plans, as indicated under Pillar 1, strides have been made to incorporate NSP targets and indicators into departmental and municipal plans.

However, the extent to which this has been done has not been determined.
Key intervention Key activities Indicators Target Reports on reducing the wage gap Annually April 2020 to March 2024 Ensure the implementation of the EEA to eliminate gender and race wage disparity Strategic policy interventions by the state, private sector and other key sectors rolled out towards eliminating the impact of the economic drivers of GBV on all women Accountability Lead department Lead: COGTA Support: Municipalities, DPME, NCGBVF In terms of the key activity “ensure the implementation of the EEA to eliminate gender and race wage disparity”, there is only one indicator which speaks to” reports on reducing the wage gap”.95 Information was not available to ascertain the level of implementation that has taken place towards meeting the single indicator that was allocated.
Accountability Lead department Lead: DEL, DTI, DSBD Support: National and Provincial departments, Municipalities Key intervention Key activities Indicators Target Public employment opportunities with specified focus on youth, women and persons with disabilities Strategic policy interventions by the state, private sector and other key sectors rolled out towards eliminating the impact of the economic drivers of GBV on all women Annually April 2020 to March 2024 Annually April 2020 to March 2024 Annual April 2020 to March 2024 Public private partnerships established to facilitate economic opportunities for women leaving shelters.
% representation of women in SMS and MMS positions on the EE Report % representation of youth disaggregated by gender and disability on the Employee Equity (EE) Report 95 National Strategic Plan on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide.
2020, p. 78 60 Commission for Gender Equality In terms of the key activity “public employment opportunities with a specified focus on youth, women and persons with disabilities”, this particular activity has three indicators, which are: (i) Public-private partnerships established to facilitate economic opportunities for women leaving shelters, (ii) Representation of women in SMS and MMS positions on the Employment Equity Report and (iii) Percentage representation of disaggregated by gender and disability on the Employment Equity Report.96 The lead departments are DEL, DTI, and DSBD, supported by national and provincial departments and municipalities.
As mentioned by the NSP document, the roll-out period for all three indicators is “annual – April 2020 to March 2024”.

With reference to the first indicator, available data is insufficient to shed light on the developments regarding public-private partnerships aiming to facilitate economic opportunities for women leaving shelters.
With respect to the second indicator, the Presidential Summit on GBVF report reveals that successful developments exist towards meeting the 40% target for women in SMS and MMS positions.97 It is unclear why the target is set below 50%.

Nonetheless, the representation of women at SMS (Levels 13 to 16) decreased from 48.7% in the 2020/2021 period to 44% in 2021/2022.

Regarding the third indicator, information was not available to determine the level of progress achieved.
Key intervention Key activities Indicators Target Broaden ownership for women, youth and SMMEs Set aside SMMEs (procurement) for women (40%) youth (30%) and persons with disabilities (7%) Annually April 2020 to March 2024 Strategic policy interventions by the state, private sector, and other key sectors rolled out towards eliminating the impact of the economic drivers of GBV on all women Accountability Lead department Lead: DSBD Support: DEL, DTI, DWYPD, Regarding the key activity “broaden ownership for women, youth and SMMEs”, it has one indicator, which states “set aside SMMEs (procurement) for women (40%), youth (30%), and persons with disabilities (7%)”.98 The leading department is DSBD, supported by DEL, DTI, and DWYPD.
The DSBD has reported that women have begun training to take advantage of the 40% procurement target set by the Medium-Term Strategic Framework (MTSF).99 The CGE reviewed existing expenditure data relating to national and provincial government departmental expenditure patterns for the 2017/2018 to 2020/2021 financial years to assess efforts to realise the 40% procurement set aside for women.
The findings revealed that many state institutions were spending far less than expected at national and provincial levels.

The few exceptions were the exception rather than the norm.

Possible factors contributing to the failure to reach the 40% expenditure target were the lack of a clear draft policy document and the lack of clear legislative provisions and guidelines in existing procurement legislative frameworks.

Furthermore, many departments were unaware of the 40% procurement quota/target.
96 National Strategic Plan on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide.

2020, p. 78.

97 Reflective Report on The Implementation of the South African National Strategic Plan on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide May 2020 to September 2022, p. 36 98 National Strategic Plan on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide.

2020, p. 78 99 Department Small Business Development Annual Report 2020/2021.
Accessed from: http://www.dsbd.gov.za/sites/default/files/2021-09/ DSBD2020-21-annual-report.pdf 61 CGE’s assessment of the government’s implementation of the NSP on GBVF between 2020 and 2022 2023 Key intervention Key activities Indicators Target Strategic policy interventions by the state, private sector and other key sectors rolled out towards eliminating the impact of the economic drivers of GBV on all women Support and encourage the role of women, persons with disabilities and LGBTQIA+ persons as leaders in all sectors of society Disability index by March 2024 Annually April 2020 to March 2024 Gender inequality index March 2024 Annually April 2020 to March 2024 Accountability Lead department Lead: STATSSA Support: DWYPD, DPSA Lead: CGE Support: STATSSA, DWYPD, DPSA The key activity “support and encourage the role of women, persons with disabilities, and LGBBQLA+ persons as leaders in all sectors of society” has two indicators: (i) Disability Inequality Index, and (ii) Gender Inequality Index.100 The lead department is StatsSA, supported by DWYPD and DPSA.
The NSP document indicates that the deadline for both indicators is “March 2024”.

The StatsSA strategic plan for 2020/2021 to 2024/2025 detailed plans for StatsSA to embark on a focused study that will administer a disability survey in efforts to develop the Disability Inequality Index.101 Regarding the second indicator, which speaks to establishing a Gender Inequality Index, the leading organisation is the CGE.
In gender transformation, the CGE has supported empowerment initiatives and has held public hearings with both public and private institutions advocating for gender equality and transformation.102 However, there was no progress relating to developing a Gender Inequality Index.

The CGE is undertaking processes to develop a GBVF index.
Key intervention Key activities Indicators Target Strategic policy interventions by the state, private sector and other key sectors rolled out towards eliminating the impact of the economic drivers of GBV on all women Implement intervention to address GBV vulnerabilities of farm workers, mine workers & domestic workers Laws and policy interventions in place to protect specific groups of workers who are particularly vulnerable to specific forms of GBV Annually April 2020 to March 2024 Accountability Lead department Lead: DEL Support: DALRRD, DME In terms of the key activity “implement intervention to address GBV vulnerabilities of farm workers, mine workers, and domestic workers”, the indicator allocated is “policy implementation to protect specific groups of workers who are particularly vulnerable to specific forms of GBV”.103 There was no information available to determine performance on the indicator, which makes it difficult to discern achievements in this regard.
100 National Strategic Plan on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide.

2020, p. 78 101 Statistics South Africa Strategic Plan.

2020, p. 26 102 Commission of Gender Equality 2021/2022 Annual Report, p. 5 103 National Strategic Plan on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide.

2020, p. 78.
62 Commission for Gender Equality Key intervention Key activities Indicators Target Sex work decriminalised and policy in place Annually April 2020 to March 2024 Finalisation of legislative process to decriminalise sex work – fast tracking and promulgation (linked to Pillar 3) Strategic policy interventions by the state, private sector and other key sectors rolled out towards eliminating the impact of the economic drivers of GBV on all women Accountability Lead department Lead: DOJ&CD Support: DEL, NCGBVF The key activity of “finalisation of the legislative process to decriminalise sex work – fast tracking and promulgation (linked to Pillar 3)” has one indicator, which is “sex work decriminalised and policy in place”.
The lead department is DOJ&CD, supported by DEL and the NCGBVF.

Data from the DOJ&CD indicated that the decriminalisation of the sex work Bill was among the bills the department intended to introduce into Parliament during the MTSF period.104 It appears that some of the key developments achieved in this area fall in the period outside the focus of this review.

Nonetheless, sex work remained a criminal offence when writing this report.
6.6 PILLAR 6: RESEARCH AND INFORMATION SYSTEMS The purpose of Pillar 6 on research and information systems is to achieve multi-disciplinary, research, and integrated information systems that are nationally coordinated and decentralised.105 The pillar aims to shape and strengthen responses to GBVF in South Africa by using existing evidence to improve programme effectiveness in fighting GBVF.106 The assessment of performance under this pillar is found below.
Key interventions Key activities Indicators Target Develop and institutionalise coordinated and Integrated Data Management, Information and Collection system Strengthen information and research base to address systemic challenges to facilitate effective strategic solutions and evidence- based responses to GBVF Multi-disciplinary Research Technical Team established, linked to the NCGBVF Integrated GBVF Management Information System across government and the justice system (with disaggregated data of victims) Annually April 2020 to March 2024 Accountability Lead department Lead: DOJ&CD Support: IJS, DSD, DOH Annually April 2021 to March 2024 Lead: DOJ&CD Support: IJS, DSD, DOH 104 Department of Justice & Constitutional Development Revised Annual Performance Plan 2022/2023.
2018, p. 23.

105 National Strategic Plan on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide.

2020, p79.

106 Ibid.

63 CGE’s assessment of the government’s implementation of the NSP on GBVF between 2020 and 2022 2023 In terms of the first indicator, which is that a “multi-disciplinary research technical team is established, linked to the NCGBVF”, there has not been much progress.
According to the DWYPD, “this indicator falls under a ten-year outcome and aims to coincide with the establishment of the NCGBVF in which, according to the DWYPD, in the absence of the NGBVF Council, is the establishment of a multi-disciplinary research technical team that can shape and drive a national GBVF research agenda is limited”.

“Furthermore, the establishment of the [NGBVF] Council will serve to consolidate and elevate GBV research strategically.
Setting a clear national research agenda will be useful in providing overall national direction”.
In terms of the second indicator on “integrated GBVF management information system across government and the justice system (with disaggregated data of victims)”, the DWYPD reported that the indicator was still in progress but gave no indication of what progress had been achieved in terms of work done towards meeting the target.107 Key interventions Key activities Indicators Target Accountability Lead department Strengthen information and research base to address systemic challenges to facilitate effective strategic solutions and evidence- based responses to GBVF Establish a GBVF clearing house that sources relevant data, analyses, and syntheses to enable dissemination, monitoring, and evaluation in the usage of research information.
Annually April 2021 to March 2024 Lead: DWYPD Support: DPME Annually April 2020 to March 2024 Annually April 2020 to March 2024 Lead: DPME Support: National and provincial departments, CSO, Academia Lead: DWYPD Support: IJS, DOJ&CD, NPA, DSD, DOH National repository for GBVF research is established as integral to the work of the National Centre of Violence and Crime Prevention An evidence map with a research repository is developed and updated regularly Databases and Information systems relating to GBVF generated by all service providers and implementers of various interventions.
Disaggregated comprehensive dashboard relating to survivors and offenders inter-linked with unique identifier functionality 107 DWYPD.2022.

Reflective report on the implementation of the South African National Strategic Plan on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide May 2020 – September 2022.
64 Commission for Gender Equality The next key activity in this pillar is establishing a GBVF clearing house that sources relevant data, analyses, and syntheses to enable, disseminate, monitor, and evaluate research information.

There are four key indicators in this key activity, and based on CGE’s assessment, it appeared that progress was noted on two.
With regard to the first indicator, which is “national repository for GBVF research is established, as integral to the work of the National Centre of Violence and Crime Prevention”, the DWYPD, in a written response to the CGE, pointed out that it had conceptualised the integrated knowledge hub (IKH) in the 2020/2021 financial year.108 In other words, the IKH had been conceptualised but not yet brought to fruition.
With regard to the second indicator and closely linked to the first indicator is the requirement to introduce an “evidence map with a research repository developed and updated regularly”.

The DWYPD reported that they have developed and piloted the IKH through the utilisation and employment of the evidence mapping tool.109 The evidence mapping tool was developed in collaboration with the University of Johannesburg.
The DWYPD was, at the time of writing this report, in the process of procuring a service provider to provide technical assistance towards the design of the integrated knowledge hub.110 The technical design is intended to develop various components, functions, and tools for the integrated knowledge hub.
With regard to the third indicator, which is “databases and information systems relating to GBVF generated by all service providers and implementers of various interventions”, it is not quite clear what progress has been achieved as the information obtained by the researchers gave no indication.

The fourth indicator relates to “disaggregated comprehensive dashboard relating to survivors and offenders inter-linked with unique identifier functionality”.
According to the DYWPD, the disaggregated comprehensive dashboard relating to survivors and offenders interlinked with unique identifier functionality has not yet been established.111 They pointed out that such a dashboard requires the integrated GBVF management information system across government and the justice system (with disaggregated data of victims) indicator first to be achieved.
This indicator is led and supported by departments and agencies in the criminal justice system.112 108 Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities (DWYPD).

2023.Response to CGE letter on progress with the targets for the NSP.

109 Ibid.

110 Ibid.

111 Ibid.

112 Ibid.

65 CGE’s assessment of the government’s implementation of the NSP on GBVF between 2020 and 2022 2023 Key interventions Key activities Indicators Target Annually April 2020 to April 2024.
Accountability Lead department Lead: NCGBVF Support: DWYPD, DPME Strengthen information and research base to address systemic challenges to facilitate effective strategic solutions and evidence- based responses to GBVF Identification of knowledge gaps and coordination of the national research agenda for optimally sharing of existing and emerging evidence and encouraging areas of further inquiry that could be taken up by academic and research institutions.
Seminars on the sharing of the research findings that have been generated and strengthening the use of such evidence to inform the piloting and scale up of effective programming.

Quarterly, multi- stakeholder engagements held and facilitated by the research technical team, to review and analyse existing evidence to update the repository and research agenda.
Documentaries produced on local good practice at a community level that offers promise for adaptation and meaningful impact for assessment and roll out.

Quarterly April 2020 to April 2024.

Lead: NCGBVF Support: DPME, DWYPD Annually April 2020 to March 2024.
Lead: NCGBVF Support: DPME, DWYPD The key activity in this section of the pillar is the “identification of knowledge gaps and coordination of the national research agenda for optimal sharing of existing and emerging evidence and encouraging areas of further inquiry that could be implemented by academic and research institutions”.

There are three key indicators.

In terms of progress related to the indicators, the results have been mixed.
With regard to the first indicator on “seminars on the sharing of the research findings that have been generated and strengthening the use of such evidence to inform the piloting and scaling up of effective programming”, it is not quite clear if these have taken place.
The CGE research indicates that there have been provincial GBVF summits in all the provinces where research findings and results and other challenges have been discussed around issues of GBVF, especially 2022 during the build-up to the Presidential Summit on GBVF in November 2022.
66 Commission for Gender Equality Furthermore, civil society has had such engagements, although not necessarily formally related to indicators on the NSP, and rather in their capacity as gender activists and active citizens contributing to the gender debates in the country.113 With regard to the second indicator on “quarterly multi-stakeholder engagements held and facilitated by the research technical team, to review and analyse existing evidence to update the repository and research agenda”, there was insufficient data to suggest that such engagements are indeed happening quarterly.
With regard to the third indicator in this section on “documentaries produced on local good practice at a community level that offers promise for adaptation and meaningful impact for assessment and roll-out”, there has been some progress on this front.
According to the DWYPD, there is a 45-minute documentary in production showcasing how government and civil society have collaborated in response to GBVF, and it is hoped lessons and experiences can be shared amongst all the stakeholders in the GBVF fight.114 Key interventions Key activities Indicators Target Strengthen information and research base to address systemic challenges to facilitate effective strategic solutions and evidence- based responses to GBVF Establish partnerships between research institutions, government, academia, NGOs, activists, and communities that facilitate and enhance complementarities in their roles and responsibilities within research processes National prevalence study on GBV conceptualised, designed and conducted.
National prevalence study to understand the extent of violence against LGBTQIA persons.

National survey on femicide that updates the 2009 data and addresses specific information gaps.

National survey on femicide that updates the 2009 data and addressed specific information gaps Annually April 2020 to March 2024.

Accountability Lead department Lead: NCGBVF Support: STATS SA; SAMRC Annually - April 2020 to March 2024.

Annually - April 2020 to March 2024.


Lead: NCGBVF Support: STATS SA, Femicide Watch, IJS Lead: SAMRC Support: STATS SA, Femicide Watch, IJS Annually April 2020 to March 2024 Lead: SAMRC Support: Statistics SA, Femicide Watch Initiative, IJS The last key activity in Pillar 6 speaks to “establishing partnerships between research institutions, government, academia, NGOs, activists, and communities that facilitate and enhance complementarities in their roles and responsibilities within research processes”.
There are three indicators which include the following: “national prevalence study on GBV conceptualised, designed and conducted”, “national prevalence study to understand the extent of violence against LGBTQIA+ persons”, and a “national survey on femicide that updates the 2009 data and addresses specific information gaps”.

113 Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities (DWYPD).

2023.

Response to CGE letter on progress with the targets for the NSP.

114 Ibid.
114 Ibid.

67 CGE’s assessment of the government’s implementation of the NSP on GBVF between 2020 and 2022 2023 With regard to the indicator of a national prevalence study on GBV conceptualised, designed, and conducted, there has been progress on this front.
Firstly, the DWYPD points out that the third National Femicide Prevalence Survey was launched by the South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC) in March 2022.115 Secondly, the National GBV Prevalence Survey was underway, and the fourth National Femicide Prevalence Study is also underway.116 With regard to conducting a national GBV prevalence study, these intentions were announced during a parliamentary meeting in February 2021 in which the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC) and the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI) reported on research on GBVF.117 Furthermore, according to the NSP on GBV Year 1 roll-out report, the HSRC has developed a proposal and has been funded to conduct the national GBV survey.118 The study was supposed to be implemented in 2021, and the results were released in December 2022 during the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children.
The report said the study would be conducted in all nine provinces.

The plan included interviewing 23 381 participants aged 18 years and above.119 It is envisaged that the study will provide South Africa with baseline data on the forms, extent, and nature of GBV victimisation and perpetration using a nationally representative sample, internationally recommended methodology, and instruments.120 It will also document forms, extent, and nature of GBV directed at women with disabilities and LGBTQIA+ persons.
These are populations which are usually side-lined from such studies.121 At the time of writing, it was not clear whether the HSRC had launched this report on GBV directed at women with disabilities and LGBTQIA+ persons in December 2022 as they had anticipated.

Nonetheless, there has been some progress with regard to the other three studies, as indicated.

115 DWYPD.2022.
115 DWYPD.2022.

Reflective report on the implementation of the South African National Strategic Plan on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide May 2020 – September 2022.

116 Ibid.

117 Parliamentary Monitoring Group (PMG), 2021.

Research on GBV: HSRC & DSI briefing.


Available online at https://pmg.org.za/committee- meeting/32326/ 118 Overview of National Strategic Plan on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide Roll-Out Year 1 May 2020 – 30 April 2021.2022 Available online at Overview of national strategic plan on gender-based violence and femicide roll0out – Year 1 | South African Government (www.gov.za) 119 Ibid.

120 Ibid.

121 Ibid.

68 Commission for Gender Equality 7.
OVERVIEW, DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF KEY ISSUES Table 2: Performance of indicators per pillar Pillar Totals Targets falling between 2020 - 2022 Progress of implementation (2020-2024) No performance information Total Achieved Not achieved Progress detected No progress Pillar 1 Pillar 2 Pillar 3 Pillar 4 Pillar 5 Pillar 6 Totals Table 2 illustrates that of the 144 indicators, 11 that were targeted for completion within the 2020 and 2022 financial years were achieved.
This category also incorporates indicators that were meant to be achieved quarterly and bi-annually within these periods.

5 of the indicators falling within this category (2020 – 2022) were unachieved at the end of 2022.

The table also shows that 75 indicators with a roll-out period of five years (2020 – 2024) had some form of progress detected in their implementation.

The level of progress varies across the indicators as discussed in the different sections regarding the pillars.
The table further illustrates that there were 15 indicators with no progress detected in the NSP implementation during the review period.

The last category focuses on indicators whereby performance information could not be obtained.

38 of the 144 indicators fall within this category.

Below is the overview, discussion and analysis of the key findings of the review per pillar.
7.1 PILLAR 1: ACCOUNTABILITY, COORDINATION AND LEADERSHIP The assessment of the performance of the government and other related entities under Pillar 1 of the implementation of the NSP in the first two years of roll-out revealed that the important task of setting up the NCGBVF had not been accomplished due to delays in the promulgation of legislation that gives existence to the structure.
This delay, as demonstrated through the findings, has hampered progress on many indicators, particularly those with the NCGBVF assigned the lead role.

The nonexistence of the NCGBVF also created an institutional vacuum on the overall oversight and monitoring of the NSP, given the gaps in data and information on the implementation of various key activities as the custodianship, strategic oversight, and accountability role over the implementation of the NSP are assigned to the yet-to-be-established entity.
As already indicated, progress on many indicators could not be reported due to the paucity of data.

The key activity to “put mechanisms and processes in place to hold state and societal leadership accountable for taking a firm stand against GBV”, specifically lacks information on all six indicators.

69 CGE’s assessment of the government’s implementation of the NSP on GBVF between 2020 and 2022 2023 The CGE could thus not assess key achievements and shortcomings under this key activity.
The key activity covers an important task of setting up accountability mechanisms for crucial role-players such as religious and cultural institutions, media, and civil society in addressing GBVF.

Unfortunately, due to a lack of data, it could not be determined how far the government was in coming up with accountability mechanisms for these sectors.

Overall, the performance assessment under Pillar 1 revealed that advancements had been made to achieve some of the target indicators.
The “GRPBMEA and NSP indicators in relevant departmental/sector APPs and Strategic Plans” and “percentage of national government and sector budgets dedicated to GBVF” are examples of indicators whereby the government appeared to be on track regarding NSP implementation.

However, there were instances where the data obtained by the CGE indicated that the government was deviating from original indicators by implementing actions not contained in the NSP.
Examples in this regard are the indicators “multi-sectoral, autonomous provincial structures established and functional in each province” and “district-level service delivery model developed to respond to GBV”, as shown in the findings.

While it is understood that strategies may evolve due to numerous factors, these developments were not accompanied by suitable explanations from the implementing and lead departments.
7.2 PILLAR 2: PREVENTION AND REBUILDING SOCIAL COHESION The key interventions, key activities, and indicators outlined under Pillar 2 underscore an important mandate for the government, private sector, civil society, communities, and other role players to eliminate the social acceptance of all forms of violence against women, children, LGBTQIA+ persons, and persons with disabilities through the development and implementation of long-term, comprehensive, adaptable, context-specific, and holistic approaches for prevention that target all sectors of South Africa.
Strides have been made on several areas in Pillar 2, such as developing the Comprehensive National GBVF Prevention Strategy.

South Africa is one of the countries with the highest rates of GBVF and thus requires a comprehensive prevention approach.

The strategy is comprehensive, taking on a whole-of-society approach to addressing the root causes of GBVF and addressing it.
The strategy adopts a systematic approach and emphasises the value of policy and evidence to drive an evidence-informed GBVF prevention strategy in the country.

Other areas where progress was noted are as follows: • Development of the National Integrated Prevention Strategy against Femicide • Approval of the policy framework to address GBV in the PSET system • Many communication interventions implemented.
Regrettably, information could not be obtained on implementing several indicators, while progress could not be noted in some.

This signals a need for commitment by all implementing entities and strengthened oversight in the implementation of the NSP.

70 Commission for Gender Equality 7.3 PILLAR 3: PROTECTION, SAFETY AND JUSTICE Progress through the development of respective legislations was noted during the first two years of the implementation of Pillar 3.
From the amendment of Chapter 6 of the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences and Related Matters) Amendment Act 2007, the overhaul of the Criminal Procedure Act of 1977, the amendment of the Labour Relations Action, the finalisation of the Traditional Courts Bill, and the inclusion of cyber violence in the Cybercrimes Bill, which were all before Parliament for promulgation at the end of the review period.
Additionally, the President has signed three Bills into law, which are the Criminal and Related Matters Amendment Act 12 of 2021, the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences and Related Matters) Amendment Act 13 of 2021, and the Domestic Violence Amendment Act 14 of 2021.

The signing of these laws is a significant milestone for survivors of GBV in the criminal justice system.
The laws aim to strengthen South Africa’s response to GBVF by further protecting GBV survivors and making it harder for perpetrators to escape justice.

The amendment of the Customary Marriages Act has become law, and the Regulations for Sexual Offences Courts was finalised.

The DOJ&CD has thus proven able to implement Pillar 3 requirements.
Moreover, the DOJ&CD also noted that the SAPS, as the lead support department in the implementation of key activities, is also making strides, in partnership with DOJ&CD, as compared to other supporting departments.

Although significant progress has been made in legislation, much is still to be achieved towards fully implementing Pillar 3 of the NSP.

The backlog of DNA cases related to GBV remained a major challenge at the end of the review period.
Furthermore, progress was slow in the training of police officials on GBVF.

The slow progress may hinder attaining the required results by the end of 2024.

The lack of reporting from other major lead departments, such as the South African Law Reform Commission (SALRC), is worrisome.

There was also no report on progress regarding setting up the emergency fund for GBVF.
7.4 PILLAR 4: RESPONSE, CARE SUPPORT AND HEALING The implementation of key activities and indicators under Pillar 4 fell mainly onto the shoulders of the DSD as the lead department.

Other departments and entities responsible for work that needed to be done under this pillar were the DWYPD, DOH, COGTA, DPSA, DEL, NT, and a few others, including CSOs.

The most peculiar entity to be assigned responsibilities under this pillar is the long-overdue NCGBVF.
Progress could not be noted on several indicators where the NCGBVF was assigned the lead role, signifying major setbacks caused by delays in establishing the council.

This situation was exacerbated by indicators where the NCGBVF was assigned the lead role, and the role was not reassigned to any other entity in the interim while awaiting its establishment.
Although the NSP document refers to a Victim Empowerment Services Support Bill, the name appears to have changed to Victim Support Services (VSS) Bill, as seen in the NSP on GBV Year 1 roll-out report 2020 to 2021.122 The progress relating to the passing of the VSS Bill is noteworthy.

Another highlight is the progress regarding ensuring government departments have employee wellness programmes offering psychosocial services.
The indicator “response, care and support delivery model in place” has significant progress and plans to streamline further, refine and address weaknesses that may crop up regarding the response, care, and support delivery models.

122 Overview of NSP on GBVF Roll-Out, Year 1.

1 May 2020 to 30 April 2021, p. 44.

71 CGE’s assessment of the government’s implementation of the NSP on GBVF between 2020 and 2022 2023 Regrettably, indicators that have no progress at all were also found under Pillar 4.
Two examples of such indicators are, (i) “Municipal plans on care and support including a service map and referral parts (responding to safety plan) for GBV support services, substance abuse and related mental health care”, and (ii) “GBV programmes (including response, care, support, and prevention) with social workers are institutionalised across the levels of schooling and higher education to provide caring, safe environments”.

Overall, there is noticeable progress under this pillar.
However, much more ground still needs to be covered if response, care, support, and healing are to be realised by South Africans and especially those who have been directly affected by GBVF.

7.5 PILLAR 5: ECONOMIC POWER The inclusion of economic power as one of the pillars in the NSP is a first for South Africa.
Pillar 5 is centred on addressing women’s economic marginalisation as women’s lack of economic independence tends to entrap them in abusive relationships and prohibits them from reporting violence when it occurs.

Key interventions in this regard include gender-sensitive budgeting, accelerating initiatives to address women’s unequal economic and social positioning, making workplaces safe and violence-free for all women, and strategic policy interventions by the state, private sector, and other key sectors.
While work was undertaken to implement this pillar, no significant progress was noted across the indicators.

Positive developments were mainly noted on soft indicators, such as plans being put in place to introduce income generation projects in shelters for survivors of GBVF, as opposed to hard targets, such as the establishment of the land and agrarian fund, interventions related to unpaid care work, and the development of the Gender Inequality Index.
Strategies in this pillar recognise the clear link between GBVF and economic dependence and seek to ensure that obstacles to women and vulnerable persons’ economic autonomy are effectively addressed.

This pillar’s strategies and interventions further highlight the need for supporting rural communities, including in areas of digital access, as rural communities are often marginalised and isolated, increasing their susceptibility to becoming victims of GBVF.
7.6 PILLAR 6: RESEARCH AND INFORMATION SYSTEMS Pillar 6 on research and information systems aims to play a crucial role in the fight against GBVF by providing systematic information and data that can be used as evidence to coordinate effective responses to GBVF.

The findings from the various indicators in this pillar show that notable progress has been made between 2020 and 2022.

However, there is still much room for improvement.


Some indicators where progress was not witnessed are: • Integrated GBVF management information system across government and the justice system developed • Databases and information systems relating to GBVF generated • Dashboard relating to survivors and offenders interlinked with unique identifier functionality.
72 Commission for Gender Equality Crucial indicators where work still needs to be carried out include the indicator on the proper functioning and development of an integrated GBVF management information system across the government and the justice system (with disaggregated data of victims).

This is crucial in making it easier to identify perpetrators of GBVF and victims of GBVF and to coordinate some of the social services related to GBVF which need to be offered, like counselling and other key services.
Furthermore, the national GBV prevalence study is important as it also looks into the extent of violence against LGBTQIA+ persons.

It is commendable that such as study has been undertaken in South Africa as the country battles to collect, store and disseminate reliable statistics on GBVF.

It would be important for the report by the HSRC to be finalised and the report findings to be released, shared, and distributed amongst all key stakeholders in the fight against GBVF.
The study will be crucial in providing data and information within each province regarding the context, problem areas or challenges, and scale of GBVF, which can greatly assist coordination between the justice and crime sectors and the social sectors in fighting GBVF.

Once established, it will also assist the NCGBVF in having a baseline and database from which to work and coordinate its activities more systematically based on evidence.
73 CGE’s assessment of the government’s implementation of the NSP on GBVF between 2020 and 2022 2023 8.

CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS 8.1 CONCLUSIONS The purpose of this report was to review the implementation of the NSP on GBVF by the government, state- funded entities, and development agencies over the two-year period (2020/2021 and 2021/2022) to track and assess progress made in line with the indicators and targets outlined in the NSP.
As indicated in the report, the majority of target deadlines for achieving various indicators in the NSP is the 2024/2025 financial year, which means that the achievement of NSP indicators is long-term and transcends beyond the two years to which this review was confined.
The CGE could thus only indicate the extent of the progress made on the work done in the run-up to achieving the five-year target, as it would be premature to state the overall performance of implementing entities while indicators are still in progress.

There were, however, instances where indicators aimed to achieve on a short-term basis and within timelines that fell within the two years of this review period.

In those instances, the CGE indicated whether such targets had been achieved or not.
Based on the discussions and review contained in this report, the CGE concludes that while there is an indication of progress made towards achieving some of the NSP indicators, there were several instances whereby progress could not be assessed due to the lack of performance data.
The lack of data in this regard undermined the objective of this review to give an overall impression on strides made by the country and whether progress was advanced, slow, or completely lacking in the implementation of the NSP in its first two years of roll-out.
Another conclusion drawn from this report is that the delay in establishing the multi-sectoral national coordination structure on GBVF (NCGBVF) has served as a major setback in the country’s attempt to strengthen accountability and architecture to address GBVF adequately.

The yet-to-be-established NCGBVF is assigned lead and support functions in implementing several indicators, as well as the overall custodianship over the NSP implementation, which involves strategic oversight and accountability.
The lack of performance information on the various indicators of the NSP points to the leadership and accountability vacuum created by delays in setting up the NCGBVF, as it is the entity earmarked to coordinate, lead, and monitor the implementation of NSP.

Poor implementation and slow progress witnessed in some NSP indicators can also be attributed to this leadership and accountability void.
Finally, the CGE concludes that effective operational coordination is necessary among institutions assigned the lead role and those assigned the support role on the same indicators to avoid fragmentation and to strengthen accountability among key institutions working towards a common goal.

Based on the review, the current practice is based on working in silos to a large extent.
8.2 RECOMMENDATIONS • The study findings revealed that delays in establishing the NCGBVF translated into slow progress in implementing several indicators where the entity was assigned the lead role.

The NCGBVF is also the entity assigned the overall responsibility to ensure the effective implementation, coordination, and monitoring of the NSP implementation.
The absence of the NCGBVF was thus felt in areas where no information or scanty data was available, as this signalled weaknesses in current monitoring and coordination mechanisms.

The CGE therefore, recommends that the process of establishing the structure be fast-tracked as the effective implementation of the NSP is largely dependent on it.
74 Commission for Gender Equality • The findings demonstrate that while progress has been achieved in several areas of the NSP implementation, the NSP costing has not been completed, and it is also unclear how the process is funded.

Thus, the Ministry for Women in the Presidency, in the absence of the NCGBVF, should initiate a consultative process for costing, budgeting, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of the NSP and report progress to Parliament.
The CGE recommends that this responsibility reside with the Ministry for Women in the Presidency until such a time that the national multi-stakeholder coordinating body on GBV is ready to assume the role and execute these functions.

• The review uncovered weak and ineffective coordination mechanisms among lead and support entities assigned to the various key activities and indicators of the NSP.
This resulted in individualism instead of collaboration and coordinated efforts among entities assigned to the same key activities.

This explains why entities assigned to the same indicators were performing at different levels and paces and instances where only one entity would be found to be making strides.

The CGE thus recommends that lead entities play an effective role in ensuring coordination and accountability in the implementation of key activities where they are assigned.
• Finally, the CGE should hold government in general and specific departments accountable for the ongoing implementation of the NSP.

The CGE should use the powers provided under the CGE Act No.

39 of 1996 and other appropriate national legislation to hold these entities accountable.
This accountability process should be accompanied by direct and regular engagements, among other engagements, between the leadership of the CGE, the Presidency, and relevant government departments and portfolio committees of the National Assembly.
75 CGE’s assessment of the government’s implementation of the NSP on GBVF between 2020 and 2022 2023 ANNEXURE 1: INDICATOR PERFORMANCE PER PILLAR Pillar 1: Accountability, Coordination and Leadership Indicator Targets falling between 2020 - 2022 Progress of implementation (2020-2024) No performance information Achieved Not achieved Progress detected No progress X X X X X X X X X X X X X X NCGBVF established and promulgated.

Legislation in place.

Council members appointed for the national structure.
Operational arrangements, including budgets in place.

All public servants are vetted.

Swift action when found guilty of any form of GBV.

Regulatory framework for the functioning of religious and cultural institutions.

Code of ethics for media reporting.

Peer and citizen-based accountability for CSO programming.

Prompt responses to all GBVF related issues using a range of media platforms.

GBVF comprehensive response model (funding, resourcing and partnership) developed for the NSP.
Roles and complementarities in relation to monitoring identified and rolled out.

A special multi-sectoral Parliamentary committee established to oversee the implementation of the NCGBVF.

Number of private and public institutions reporting on implementation of sexual harassment policies.

76 Commission for Gender Equality Annual Accountability Social Audit Report.

GRPBMEA and NSP indicators in relevant Departmental/ Sector APPs and Strategic Plans.
Percentage of national government and sector budgets dedicated to GBVF Social media accountability framework developed and the adoption of zero tolerance of cyber violence.

Ethical guidelines on media and communicators relating to the portrayal of women and children in the media developed, implemented and monitored.

Leadership indaba at national and local levels across sectors held.

Multi-sectoral, autonomous provincial structures established and functional in each province.
District level service delivery model developed to respond to GBV.

X Rapid Response Structures at community level / local platforms in place and harnessed to readily respond to the GBVF crisis.

Mechanisms for civil society engagements and peer monitoring (citizen based monitoring) in place.

District level service delivery model developed to respond to GBVF.
Totals 1 4 X X X X X X 1 11 X X X X 8 77 CGE’s assessment of the government’s implementation of the NSP on GBVF between 2020 and 2022 2023 Pillar 2: Prevention and Rebuilding Social Cohesion Indicator Targets falling between 2020 - 2022 Progress of implementation (2020-2024) No performance information Achieved Not achieved Progress detected No progress X X X X X X National Prevention strategy with key overarching messages in place.
Communication toolkit with list of key messages and targeted sources of media developed Sustained media campaign for 365 days by all departments led by GCIS providing information including awareness Number of multimedia campaigns implemented and different sources used % of CDWs trained in GBV doing prevention work.
% of CHCWs trained in GBV doing prevention work Community level activists and GBV service organisations trained and rolling out prevention programmes Roll out and training of district level coordinators Manuals and training support materials developed and accessible for all disability groups.

Strategic interventions for boys identified and rolled out.

Strategic interventions with young men in post-school education and training system (PSET), unemployed, working identified and rolled out.
Strategic interventions to shift behaviour in men rolled out Strategic interventions targeting men as fathers piloted and rolled out 78 X X X X X X X Commission for Gender Equality Strategic interventions focused on building gender equitable approaches to communication and relationships is rolled out using religious institutions and workplaces as possible platforms.
Number of schools with programmes especially designed and rolled out to address GBVF Views and perceptions from young people on GBVF used to track attitudes Policy Framework to address GBV in PSET system approved.
National and institutional accountability and enabling environment is in place to curb and address GBV in PSET institutions X National support for PSET institutions is effected in the implementation of GBV policies and provides proper support and assistance to victims of GBV with an effective and comprehensive specialised referral system Evidence based behaviour changes interventions adapted and rolled out in specific geographical communities.
Intervention for traditional leaders and healers developed and roll out.

Intervention for religious leaders adapted and rolled out Behaviour change - interventions to shift attitudes and behaviours within the public sector adapted and rolled out.
Strategic community outreach interventions to raise awareness and generate acceptance of different expressions and forms of Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity (SOGI) rolled out X X X X X X X X X X 79 CGE’s assessment of the government’s implementation of the NSP on GBVF between 2020 and 2022 2023 Continuous assessment of community and institutional prevention interventions that are effective and have potential for wider impact.

Evidence-based parenting programmes rolled out.


GBV prevention integrated into roll out of ECD programme.

SRHR awareness and HIV prevention interventions integrate GBVF prevention component.

Community level violence prevention programmes integrate GBVF prevention SOGI violence prevention integrated into GBV prevention programming.

GBV prevention integrated into SOGI programmes.


Substance abuse (drugs and alcohol) interventions integrate GBVF prevention component Gender-responsive IDPS integrate safety audits and interventions X Public transport safety interventions in place Proportion of safe parks for children.

Lay mental health workers trained.


Circles of Healing/Ubuntu rolled out Community Building through non- violent art forms Strategic conversations on the collapsed social and moral fibre in society spearheaded by the Social Cluster, working with the Moral Regeneration Movement (MRM).

Rapid Response Mechanism to respond to incidents of racist and xenophobic offences/hate crimes.
X Totals 8 1 80 X X X X X X 22 X X X X X X X X 0 9 Commission for Gender Equality Pillar 3: Protection, Safety and Justice Indicator Interventions in place to respond to specific barriers that all victims may face in accessing services, and specifically people with disability and LGBTQIA+ persons.

Information on cases is readily available for victims to access and track progress.

Number of officials trained within the CJS dealing with GBVF matters.

Debriefing support mechanisms in place.


Compensation and Restitution for victims of crime and enforcement mechanism in place Emergency Fund Number of TCCs Units established.

Number of Courts upgraded into SOCs.

Number of FCS Units upgraded.

Number of GBVF cases cleared.

Case management system upgraded.

Country-wide Femicide watch system in place.

Number of certificates issued to persons providing services to children and mentally disabled persons Chapter 6 of Criminal Law amended.
Criminal Procedure Act amended.

Labour Relations Act amended.

Amendment of Customary Marriages Act amended Traditional Courts Bill amended.

Targets falling between 2020 - 2022 Progress of implementation (2020-2024) No performance information Achieved Not achieved Progress detected No progress X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X 81 CGE’s assessment of the government’s implementation of the NSP on GBVF between 2020 and 2022 2023 Legislation on Decriminalisation of sex work promulgated.
Cyber Crime Bill amended.

Prevention and Combating of Hate Crimes and Hate Speech Bill.

Older Persons Act amended.

Film & Publications Act amended.

Regulations for Sexual offences Courts are finalised.

Legislative framework on Domestic Partnership finalised.

Charter for Victims of Crime amended.

Promulgation of the Victim Support Services Act.
X X X X X X X X Totals 0 0 21 0 5 82 Commission for Gender Equality Pillar 4: Response, Care, Support and Healing Indicator Targets falling between 2020 - 2022 Progress of implementation (2020-2024) No performance information Achieved Not achieved Progress detected No progress Victim Empowerment Services Support Bill passed White Paper on Social Welfare Services adopted Minimum core services package and costing in place for GBVF survivors Standardised Shelter Framework in place.
Funding Model for NGOs providing services to victims of crime and GBV.

M&E framework for victim friendly, survivor focused service delivery.

Agreement in place for DOH to manage TCCs.

Institutional mechanisms such as compulsory leave, task shifting and team building to provide a supportive institutional environment for service providers.

Mandatory debriefing and psychosocial support services captured in Victim Empowerment Support and Services Bill.

Response, care and support delivery model in place.
Community Rapid Response Teams established.

MOU between respective service providers are in place.

CBOs, FBOs, activists are engaged in shaping local responses.

X X X X X X X X X X X X X 83 CGE’s assessment of the government’s implementation of the NSP on GBVF between 2020 and 2022 2023 X Integrated management information systems linking social development, health, education and the criminal justice system in place and utilised.
Improved multi-sectoral locally rooted responses/programmes to GBVF with expanded, standardised sheltering services and meets the needs of LGBTQIA+ persons and persons with disabilities.

Municipal plans on care and support including a service map and referral parts (responding to safety plan) for GBV support services, substance abuse and related mental health care.
GBV Programmes (including response, care, support & prevention) with social workers are institutionalised across the levels of schooling and higher education to provide caring, safe environments.

Workplaces are held accountable for providing psychosocial support for survivors within the workplace, as integral to their Employee Wellness Programmes.
Totals 1 0 X X X X 9 4 4 84 Commission for Gender Equality Pillar 5: Economic Power Indicator Targets falling between 2020 - 2022 Progress of implementation (2020-2024) No performance information Achieved Not achieved Progress detected No progress Number of programmes implemented for equitable job creation Number of public private partnerships in place to facilitate economic opportunities Land and agrarian fund established by March 2022 Number of survivors being able to access shelters/province.
Interim housing arrangements in place based on updated policy directives per province by March 2024 Number of multi-sectoral interventions in place for shelter and interim housing for survivors.

Public private partnerships established to facilitate economic opportunities for women leaving shelters.
Range of policy interventions in place to address barriers women face to participation in strategic sections of the economy Mechanisms in place to prevent defaulting of child maintenance by March 2021 X Number of workplaces with GBV wellness interventions in place % increase annually Proportion of workplaces with enforceable sexual harassment policies in place disaggregated for public and private.
X X X X X X X X X X 85 CGE’s assessment of the government’s implementation of the NSP on GBVF between 2020 and 2022 2023 X X X X X X % of time spent on unpaid domestic and care work, by sex.
Degree to which GBV targets are integrated into departmental and municipal plans Reports on reducing the wage gap Public private partnerships established to facilitate economic opportunities for women leaving shelters % representation of women in SMS and MMS positions on the EE Report % representation of youth disaggregated by gender and disability on the Employee Equity (EE) Report Set aside SMMEs (procurement) for women (40%) youth (30%) and persons with disabilities (7%) Disability index by March 2024 Gender inequality index March 2024 Laws and policy interventions in place to protect specific groups of workers who are particularly vulnerable to specific forms of GBV Sex work decriminalised and policy in place.
Totals 1 0 8 X X X 6 X X 7 86 Commission for Gender Equality Pillar 6: Research and Information Systems Indicator Multi-disciplinary Research Technical Team established, linked to the NCGBVF.

Integrated GBVF Management Information System across government and the justice system (with disaggregated data of victims) National repository for GBVF research is established, as integral to the work of the National Centre of Violence and Crime Prevention.
An evidence map with a research repository developed and updated regularly.

Databases and Information systems relating to GBVF generated by all service providers and implementers of various interventions.

Disaggregated comprehensive dashboard relating to survivors and offenders inter-linked with unique identifier functionality Seminars on the sharing of the research findings that have been generated and strengthening the use of such evidence to inform the piloting and scale up of effective programming.
Quarterly, multi-stakeholder engagements held and facilitated by the research technical team, to review and analyse existing evidence to update the repository and research agenda.
Targets falling between 2020 - 2022 Progress of implementation (2020- 2024) No performance information Achieved Not achieved Progress detected No progress X X X X X X X X 87 CGE’s assessment of the government’s implementation of the NSP on GBVF between 2020 and 2022 2023 Documentaries produced on local good practice at a community level that offers promise for adaptation and meaningful impact for assessment and roll out.
National prevalence study on GBV conceptualised, designed and conducted National prevalence study to understand the extent of violence against LGBTQIA persons.

National survey on femicide that updates the 2009 data and addresses specific information gaps.
Totals Grand Totals 0 11 0 5 X X X 7 75 X 3 15 3 38 88 Commission for Gender Equality NOTES 89 CGE’s assessment of the government’s implementation of the NSP on GBVF between 2020 and 2022 2023 NOTES 90 Commission for Gender Equality +27 10 494 3524 RPXXX/2023 ISBN: 978-0-621-51099-7 CGE's assessment of the government's implementation of the NSP on GBVF between 2020 and 2022 2023